India at the United Nations

India has engaged in several high-level discussions at the United Nations regarding international law, human rights, and gender equality. During General Assembly meetings, Indian representatives advocated for specific legal thresholds for classifying terrorist acts as crimes against humanity, while emphasizing that such frameworks must respect national sovereignty. India also defended its record on indigenous land rights against reports from a UN Special Rapporteur, citing domestic constitutional safeguards and welfare programs. Additionally, the UN recognized India’s progress in addressing child marriage.

In a United Nations Security Council debate on the Women, Peace and Security agenda, India emphasized the necessity of increasing female representation in armed forces to combat the use of sexual violence as a “political weapon”. The Indian delegation highlighted the contributions of female army majors in UN peacekeeping missions and noted domestic legislative progress, such as the Women’s Reservation Act of 2023. As part of its candidacy for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2028–2029 term, India has identified artificial intelligence and maritime security as core priorities. Permanent Representative P. Harish stated that technology should strengthen human security rather than exacerbate inequality, and he called for international cooperation to ensure freedom of navigation.

At the UN Human Rights Council, First Secretary Bhavika Mangalanandan has urged sustained attention on terrorism, describing it as one of the most serious threats to the right to life. She advocated for a zero tolerance approach and criticized the use of human rights as a “political weapon,” warning that double standards undermine the Council's credibility. Mangalanandan further argued that human rights should be advanced through dialogue and genuine partnerships, noting that economic, social, and cultural rights deserve equal attention to civil and political rights to address barriers facing the Global South.