In a notable celebration of contributions to global peacekeeping, Major Abhilasha Barak of the Indian Army was honored at a special reception held at India House in New York. This event, hosted by India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, specifically recognized Major Barak for her exceptional service and her recent accolade—the 2025 United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award.
Major Barak’s recognition underscores India’s strong commitment to gender-responsive peacekeeping and aligns with the Women, Peace, and Security agenda. The award, presented by UN Secretary-General António Guterres during a formal ceremony at the United Nations Headquarters, acknowledges military personnel who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in promoting gender perspectives within peacekeeping missions—making the voices and security needs of women and girls a priority in conflict zones.
Ambassador Harish took the opportunity to congratulate Major Barak on her achievements, noting that her award is not only a source of pride for India but also a reflection of the country’s ongoing contributions to international peacekeeping efforts. He emphasized Major Barak’s impressive service with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), stating that her accomplishments highlight the legacy of Indian peacekeepers at the highest levels.
Major Barak’s accolade is particularly significant as she becomes the third Indian peacekeeper to receive this prestigious award, following Major Suman Gawani in 2019 and Major Radhika Sen in 2023. This pattern of recognition reaffirms India’s leadership role in promoting gender-inclusive peacekeeping initiatives.
Renowned as the first woman combat helicopter pilot of the Indian Army, Major Barak has made substantial strides in her military career. Her determination and excellence serve as a powerful inspiration for aspiring female service members. As part of her responsibilities with the Indian Battalion in the UNIFIL, Major Barak has been serving as both an Engagement Team Commander and a Gender Focal Point. In these roles, she has worked diligently to integrate gender considerations into various field operations and community outreach activities.
Her on-ground efforts have focused on addressing the unique concerns of women, girls, and vulnerable populations affected by conflict. By engaging directly with local communities, she has fostered trust between peacekeepers and civilians and ensured that women’s needs are prioritized in peacekeeping initiatives.
During her deployment, Major Barak led several gender-focused activities, including educational support, health outreach, and vocational training designed to empower local women in southern Lebanon. Her commitment to integrating gender concerns into military operations has made peacekeeping efforts more effective and community-oriented.
Furthermore, Major Barak’s role extends to sensitizing her fellow peacekeepers on gender issues, thus enhancing their understanding of the diverse impacts of conflict on different segments of society. This holistic approach aims to protect and empower women and girls, who often face elevated risks in unstable environments.
Major Barak’s recognition is timely, coinciding with the United Nations’ emphasis on the Women, Peace, and Security agenda, which advocates for women’s inclusion in peacebuilding and conflict recovery processes. As one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions, India has earned respect worldwide for its disciplined, professional, and humanitarian approach to service.
The honor bestowed upon Major Barak not only enriches India’s longstanding peacekeeping legacy but also emphasizes the increasing roles women officers play in military and peacekeeping contexts. The reception at India House served as both a diplomatic recognition and a celebration of the contribution of Indian women in armed forces.
Major Barak’s journey—from being the first woman combat helicopter pilot to receiving a prestigious international accolade—epitomizes the evolving dynamics of India’s military landscape. Her accomplishments send a clear message that peacekeeping extends beyond military presence; it also focuses on trust-building, community support, and inclusivity in peace efforts.
The significant recognition awarded to Major Abhilasha Barak not only brings pride to the Indian Army but also inspires countless young women to pursue careers in uniform, reinforcing the message that their roles can be pivotal in shaping global peace initiatives.
