Tingplik Express

New Delhi, Jun 2: Prompt action by Indian soldiers on a UN peacekeeping mission has saved the lives of many troops of the Sudanese Peoples Liberation Army (SPLA).

A truck ferrying troops of the SPLA overturned on May 28 around 2 p.m., injuring about a dozen soldiers with two of them being stuck under the vehicle and bleeding profusely.

The 2 NAGA Infantry Battalion troops deployed at Bor in southern Sudan immediately rushed to the site to extricate the SPLA troops and provide medical aid.

The immediate response to the humanitarian need by the Indian soldiers helped save lives of SPLA soldiers who would have otherwise bled to death.

The assistance rendered by the Indian troops was widely appreciated and the Sudanese Governor expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the immediate and decisive life saving assistance.

The incident highlights the fine balance the Indian troops maintain in UN missions between professionalism and humanitarian effort beyond the accepted mandate.

The Army contingent comprises of 2 NAGA, 5/1 Gorkha Rifles and other units. The contingent has 878 soldiers from 2 NAGA regiment, 810 soldiers from 5/1 Gorkhas. 400 soldiers from the Force Signal Unit, the 619 Transport Company and a level II hospital of the Indian Army will support both battalions.

India has taken part in UN peacekeeping operations in four continents. Its most significant contribution has been to promote peace and stability in Africa and Asia.


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