New Delhi, June 7: Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Major Abhilasha Barak on receiving the ‘United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award’ and praised her ‘exemplary service’ on Sunday. He stated that this achievement serves as an inspiration for Indian youth, especially girls who aspire to serve society and the nation.
In a post on the social media platform ‘X’, PM Modi wrote, “Congratulations to Major Abhilasha Barak for receiving the ‘United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award.’ Major Barak is serving as the Engagement Team Commander and Gender Focal Point under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).”
He added, “This honor reflects her outstanding service and also showcases India’s long contribution to UN peacekeeping missions. Her achievement is an inspiration for many Indian youth, especially daughters who wish to serve the country and humanity.”
Major Barak is India’s first female combat helicopter pilot and has been awarded the ‘United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award’ for her efforts in promoting the role and perspectives of women in peacekeeping missions.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, while presenting the award, remarked that Major Barak is “an ideal for those you serve and with whom you work.”
Deployed in Lebanon, Major Barak stated, “Dreams have no gender, nor does leadership, courage, or the will to serve humanity.” Lebanon is currently considered one of the most dangerous peacekeeping areas under the UN.
She also emphasized that this award serves as a reminder that lasting peace can only be achieved when every voice is heard and every individual is given the opportunity to progress.
UN Assistant Secretary-General Lisa Buttenheim noted that Major Barak’s leadership and innovative approaches have advanced the roles of women in military operations related to peace and security.
Guterres highlighted that by building trust with local communities, Major Barak helped establish early warning networks, enhancing civilian safety.
He also mentioned that as a frontline commander, she has connected with thousands of women and girls, providing them access to skill training, education, and health-related programs, thereby transforming their lives.
Major Barak is the third female officer from India to receive this Military Gender Advocate Award, following Major Suman Gawani and Major Radhika Sen. She is currently serving as the Engagement Team Commander and Gender Focal Point with the Indian battalion in UNIFIL, a mission stationed at the Israel-Lebanon border and regarded as one of the riskiest peace missions.
Reflecting on her military career, Major Barak said, “As the first female combat helicopter pilot in the Indian Army, I have personally experienced how women can overcome every obstacle and achieve great heights when given the opportunity.”