Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ex Khaan Quest 2023
Mains level: Not Much
Central Idea: The multinational peacekeeping joint exercise, Ex Khaan Quest 2023, has commenced in Mongolia, with the participation of military contingents and observers from over 20 countries.
Ex Khaan Quest 2023
- This 14-day exercise aims to enhance interoperability, share experiences, and provide training for United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKO).
- The exercise is co-sponsored by the Mongolian Armed Forces (MAF) and the United States Army Pacific Command (USARPAC).
- The Indian Army, represented by a contingent from the GARHWAL RIFLES, is actively involved in this endeavor.
Agenda of the exercise
- Fostering Interoperability: This Exercise focuses on strengthening interoperability among participating nations, facilitating better coordination during joint operations.
- Sharing Experience: The exercise provides a platform for sharing experiences and best practices among military personnel involved in UNPKO, enabling them to learn from each other’s expertise.
- Training for UN Peacekeeping: Participants will be trained for future UN Peacekeeping missions, ensuring they possess the necessary skills and capabilities to carry out peace operations effectively.
- Diverse Training Components: The exercise encompasses various training elements such as Command Post Exercise (CPX), Field Training Exercises (FTX), combat discussions, lectures, and demonstrations.
Back2Basics: UN Peacekeeping
- UN Peacekeeping was established in 1948 to maintain international peace and security.
- The first mission was deployed in 1948 for the Arab-Israeli conflict ceasefire.
- Its missions involve soldiers, police officers, and civilian personnel known as Blue Berets or Blue Helmets.
- Guided by principles of consent, impartiality, and limited use of force, UN Peacekeeping deploys approximately 81,820 personnel from 119 countries in 13 missions worldwide.
- With their assistance, UN Peacekeeping promotes peace, stability, and humanitarian aid globally.
Major Contributors to UN Peacekeeping:
- India: Largest troop contributor, with over 253,000 personnel in 49 missions.
- Bangladesh: Second-largest contributor, with over 150,000 personnel deployed since 1988.
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