The United Nations Organisation (UNO) is an international body established on 24 October 1945, after the end of World War II, with the aim of maintaining international peace, security, and cooperation among nations. India, being one of the founding members of the UN, has played a vital role in promoting peace, development, and human rights across the world.
AFCAT 1 2026 Exam Static GK – India & UNO
Formation and Structure of the UNO
- Headquarters: New York, USA
- Official Languages: English, French, Russian, Spanish, Chinese, and Arabic
- Secretary-General (as of 2025): António Guterres (Portugal)
- Total Member States: 193
- Main Organs of the UN:
- General Assembly
- Security Council
- Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)
- International Court of Justice (ICJ)
- Trusteeship Council
- Secretariat
India’s Role in the United Nations
- Founding Member:
India became a member of the UN on 30 October 1945, two days after its creation. - Contributions to Peacekeeping:
India is among the largest troop contributors to UN peacekeeping missions. Indian forces have served in countries like Congo, Sudan, Lebanon, and South Sudan. - Leadership in Global Forums:
- India has been a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council (UNSC) eight times, most recently for the 2021–2022 term.
- India has consistently advocated for reforms in the UNSC, emphasizing representation for developing nations.
- Support for Sustainable Development:
India actively supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and initiatives related to climate action, poverty eradication, and gender equality. - Humanitarian Assistance:
Through UN platforms, India contributes to disaster relief, food security (via the World Food Programme) and health initiatives (WHO).
India’s Representation in Key UN Bodies
| UN Body | India’s Involvement |
|---|---|
| UN General Assembly | Founding member; promotes global equity and multilateralism |
| UN Security Council | Served as non-permanent member 8 times |
| UNESCO | Promotes education and cultural heritage; India has 42 World Heritage Sites |
| UNICEF | Collaborates on child health and education projects |
| UNHRC | Advocates for human rights and equality |
| WHO | Partnered during COVID-19 pandemic and for global health initiatives |
India’s Contribution to UN Peacekeeping
- Over 250,000 Indian soldiers have participated in 49 UN peacekeeping missions.
- India was the first country to send an all-women Formed Police Unit (FPU) to Liberia in 2007.
- Indian peacekeepers have earned international recognition for professionalism and humanitarian service.
India’s Stand on UN Reforms
India has been a strong advocate for reforming the UN, especially the Security Council, to reflect present-day realities.
- India seeks permanent membership in the UNSC as part of the G4 nations (India, Germany, Japan, Brazil).
- It believes reforms are essential to make the UN more democratic, representative, and effective.
Important Facts for AFCAT Exam
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| UN Formation Date | 24 October 1945 |
| India Joined UN | 30 October 1945 |
| UN Headquarters | New York, USA |
| Current UN Secretary-General | António Guterres (Portugal) |
| Total Member States | 193 |
| India’s Last Term in UNSC | 2021–2022 |
| India’s First Peacekeeping Mission | Korea (1950) |
Conclusion
India’s active participation in the United Nations reflects its commitment to global peace, equality, and sustainable development. From peacekeeping missions to climate action and humanitarian aid, India continues to be a responsible and respected member of the global community. Its call for UN reforms symbolizes the vision of a more inclusive and representative world order.
