Sundernagar’s Maj Radhika Sen becomes 2nd Indian to get prestigious UN military award

MANDI: Major Radhika Sen, hailing from Sundernagar in Himachal Pradesh, has distinguished herself not only by safeguarding the nation’s borders as a dedicated officer in the Indian Army but also by becoming the second Indian woman officer to receive the highest military honour from the United Nations. Her recognition has brought immense pride to the country, the Indian Army, Himachal Pradesh and her hometown Sundernagar.

Having served in the UN mission in Congo, Major Sen was honoured with the prestigious military award on Thursday (May 30, 2024). On International United Nations Peacekeepers Day, she was awarded the 2023 United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award by UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

Major Sen served as the commander of the Indian Rapid Deployment Battalion in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo from March 2023 to April 2024. Born in 1993, she joined the Indian Army eight years ago. She follows in the footsteps of Major Suman Gawani, becoming the second Indian peacekeeper to receive this distinguished award.

Major Sen’s father Omkar Sen, a retired principal from the Government Polytechnic Institute in Hamirpur, and her mother, Nirmal Sen, a retired principal from the Kathog School in Chauhar Valley, expressed their joy and pride in her achievements. Omkar Sen dedicated his daughter’s success to the Indian Army, the citizens of India and the people of Sundernagar.

The Army officer completed her early education at St Mary School in Sundernagar and her higher secondary education at Mt Carmel School in Chandigarh. In 2016, she passed her commission exams and began her military career. After graduating from the Officers Training Academy in Chennai, she received her first posting in Srinagar, followed by assignments in Leh, West Bengal and Sikkim.

Major Radhika Sen’s journey from Sundernagar to receiving one of the highest international military honours is an inspiring tale of dedication, bravery and exemplary service.