India Hosts UNTCC Chiefs Conclave, Highlights Technological Self-Reliance and Heritage Tours

Delegates from 32 United Nations Troop Contributing Countries (UNTCC) attending the ongoing Chiefs Conclave in India travelled to Agra on Wednesday for an "integrated new-age technology demonstration" by the Indian Army, highlighting the nation's self-reliance in defence innovation. Hosted by India from October 14-16, the conclave gathers senior military leaders from nations like Algeria, Armenia, Australia, Bangladesh, Brazil, Egypt, Ethiopia, Fiji, France, Ghana, Italy, Kenya, Malaysia, Nepal, Nigeria, Poland, Rwanda, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, Uganda, Uruguay, Vietnam, and others, alongside UN officials. The forum addresses key peacekeeping challenges, including operational hurdles, emerging threats, interoperability, decision-making inclusivity, and the integration of technology and training to bolster UN missions worldwide, which deploy over 70,000 personnel across 12 operations.

The Agra visit, following initial deliberations in Delhi, showcased an array of cutting-edge equipment, underscoring India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) initiative. Officials described the demonstration as a testament to New Delhi's capacity to deliver modern, innovative, and cost-effective solutions for contemporary challenges in peacekeeping and beyond. Amid global calls for enhanced UN capabilities—evidenced by recent mandates in conflict zones like South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo—the event emphasised adaptive strategies.

The Indian Army's display, featuring indigenous systems like advanced surveillance drones and AI-enabled logistics tools, aligns with UN Resolution 2719 (2023), which urges technological upgrades for mission safety and efficiency. This hands-on exposure fosters bilateral ties, as seen in separate meetings between Vice Chief Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh and Armenia's Maj Gen Temur Shahnazaryan, focusing on joint training and expanded UN collaborations.

Complementing the military focus, delegates toured the iconic Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage site symbolising enduring love and architectural marvel, commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1632. The visit offered a cultural respite, blending diplomacy with heritage appreciation. Later, at the Kalakriti Heritage Centre, participants engaged in a traditional performance showcasing India's artistic legacy—from intricate block printing to marble inlay work—while interacting with local artisans.

Such immersions highlight India's soft power strategy, integrating cultural diplomacy into security dialogues, much like the 2019 UNTCC meet in New York that paired talks with Broadway shows. The outing not only humanises high-level exchanges but also promotes sustainable tourism, with Agra drawing over 7 million visitors annually.

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The conclave's second day wrapped with anticipation for Thursday's finale, including a light and sound show at Delhi's Red Fort—narrating India's civilisational milestones—and a metro ride, exemplifying urban mobility advancements. Inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh alongside Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Anil Chauhan, Army Chief Gen. Upendra Dwivedi, Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh, UN Under-Secretary-General Jean-Pierre Lacroix, and India's UN envoy Parvathaneni Harish, the event reaffirmed commitments to credible, inclusive peacekeeping rooted in cooperation.

As deliberations conclude with industry interactions and outcome summations, the UNTCC aims to chart a resilient path forward, positioning India as a pivotal player in global peace efforts amid rising geopolitical tensions.

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