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 contribute to 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 highlights India’s long-standing contribution to UN peacekeeping missions. Her achievement inspires many Indian youth, particularly 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 remarked that Major Barak is “an ideal for those you serve and work with” while presenting the award.
Currently deployed in Lebanon, Major Barak stated, “Dreams have no gender, nor does leadership, courage, or the will to serve humanity.” Lebanon remains one of the most dangerous areas for UN peacekeeping operations.
She also emphasized that this award serves as a reminder that lasting peace can only be achieved when every voice is heard and everyone is given the opportunity to advance.
UN Assistant Secretary-General Lisa Buttenheim noted that Major Barak’s leadership and innovative approaches have advanced the roles of women in military operations, peace, and security.
Regarding Major Barak’s work, Guterres mentioned that by building trust with local communities, she helped establish early warning networks that enhanced civilian safety.
He also highlighted that as a frontline commander, she connected with thousands of women and girls, providing them with access to skill training, education, and health programs that transformed 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, which is currently regarded as the most hazardous peacekeeping mission.
Reflecting on her military career, Major Barak stated, “As India’s first female combat helicopter pilot, I have experienced firsthand how women can overcome every obstacle and achieve great heights when given the opportunity.”
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