Major Radhika Sen, an Indian peacekeeper and IIT student, has achieved recognition for her service in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). She has been awarded the prestigious United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year for her exceptional work in empowering local communities.
Major Sen served in the volatile eastern DRC from March 2023 to April 2024 as part of the MONUSCO peacekeeping force. As the Commander of the Engagement Platoon for the Indian Rapid Deployment Battalion, she led mixed-gender patrols and activities in the conflict-ridden North Kivu province. This region has seen countless civilians, including women and children, displaced by ongoing conflicts.
In recognition of her efforts, Major Sen received the gender advocate award from UN Secretary-General António Guterres during a ceremony at UN Headquarters in New York. This event was part of the celebrations for the International Day of UN Peacekeepers. Guterres commended her service, highlighting her as a true credit to the United Nations.
Major Sen graduated as a biotech engineer and was pursuing her masters at IIT Bombay. Her ambition to join the military led her to a path where she could make a significant impact. “Gender-sensitive peacekeeping is everybody’s business, not just us women,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of inclusive peacekeeping efforts.
Throughout her service in the DRC, Major Sen initiated and led numerous impactful projects. She facilitated English classes for children and vocational training for displaced adults, providing them with essential skills and opportunities. Additionally, she played a pivotal role in empowering women in one village to form a group. This group advocated for their rights and raised their security and humanitarian concerns in local peace discussions.
Major Sen’s achievements mark a significant milestone as she becomes the second Indian peacekeeper to receive the UN Military Gender Advocate of the Year award, following Major Suman Gawani, who was honored in 2019. India has a proud history of supporting female peacekeepers and was the first country to send an all-female contingent to a UN mission in Liberia in 2007.
Major Radhika Sen’s journey from a biotech engineer to an award-winning peacekeeper exemplifies dedication, resilience, and a commitment to gender equality and community empowerment. Her work in the DRC not only improved the lives of many but also set a powerful example of inclusive and effective peacekeeping.
Photo: © MONUSCO