Goma, 26 January 2011 – The Indian contingent of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) organized a medal parade in Goma on 26 January 2011, and took the opportunity to celebrate the 62nd anniversary of India Republic Day.

The ceremony was attended by several provincial administrative authorities as well as members of MONUSCO senior civilian and military staff, including the Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General, Mr. Fidèle Sarassoro, the Force Commander, General Sander Prakash, and the Head of MONUSCO regional office in North Kivu.

The highlights of the day consisted of a military parade and an exhibition featuring India's cultural heritage.

As one of the major troop-contributing countries in Peacekeeping, the Republic of India has a long experience in the DRC. Its first presence in this country dates as far back as March 1961 when it participated in the 99th Infantry brigade during the Katanga secession crisis. India also contributed thousands of troops to the United Missions in 1964 and 2000. Currently, India's contribution to MONUSCO stands at 4,000 troops out of the Mission 17,000 strong force.

In the course of its involvement in peacekeeping operations, India has paid a heavy price. "Out of the 100,000 Indian soldiers who have served in 43 peacekeeping operations, 136 have been killed while in service, including 36 in the DRC alone," said the Force Commander.

The Indian contingent has made significant contributions in the humanitarian and development areas in eastern DRC, including building or rehabilitating community centers and vocational training schools, as well as setting up laboratories for IT training, and building markets.

The Force Commander urged his troops to continue their good work while at the same time keeping in mind MONUSCO's mandate. "I ask you to wear your medals with pride, and to seize this opportunity as an incentive to double your effort in order to bring peace and stability in the DRC," said General.

Alexandre Essome/MONUSCO