1.    Genesis.   Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) attained independence on 30 June 1960 from the Belgian rule.  Post independence, the Congolese Army mutinied; which prompted Belgium to intervene without the concurrence of the Congolese government.  Simultaneously, the mineral rich provinces of Katanga and Kasai seceded from the country.  The Government of Congo appealed to the UN for help, which was promptly agreed to, on 14 July 1960.The UN Operations in the Congo (Operation des Nations Unies au Congo) was the largest peacekeeping operation mounted by the UN up to that time, in terms of the complex responsibilities, the area of operations and the number of peacekeepers involved.  This was also the first time a peacekeeping mission was embroiled in a chaotic internal strife. On 21 February 1961, the Security Council adopted a resolution to authorize ONUC to use force, as a last resort to prevent civil war. Indian Army's action in Congo thus became the first peace enforcement operation in the history of the United Nations.

2.          Contribution.    India’s participation in ONUC began in July 1960 with the deployment of supply, technical and medical personnel.  Subsequently, at the behest of the UN, India enlarged its contingent to a Brigade Group.  99 Infantry Brigade Group was deployed in Congo and the formation consisted of three Infantry Battalions, Armoured Squadron, Heavy Mortar Battery, Engineer Company, Machine Gun Company, Field Ambulance and six Canberra aircraft of the Indian Air Force. 99 Infantry Brigade Group carried out major operations in Katanga province and was successful in clearing large parts from the control of the rebels. In one of these operations, Captain GS Salaria, 3/1 GORKHA RIFLES was awarded Param Vir Chakra (Posthumously) for valour of the most exceptional order. The gallant actions of the Indian Army contingents supported by the Air Force led to ONUC obtaining full control over Katanga in May 1962. Towards the end of 1962, the attacks on ONUC had recommenced. Indian contingents swiftly advanced into the key towns of Katanga, which stunned and surprised the breakaway factions. Many rivers were crossed by improvised expedients in the face of stiff opposition and were ably supported by the air operations. The swift offensive actions by the Indian Contingents surprised the rebel forces and they capitulated fearing onslaught. The Indian Contingent ensured reunification of Congo and led to the termination of the mission. During the period of deployment Indian Army sustained casualties, including fatal casualties. The professional ethics and determination in conduct of operations drew praise from all quarters.  The contingent’s valour was recognized and One Param Vir Chakra, Three Mahavir Chakras, 14 Vir Chakras and 23 Sena Medals were awarded.

Rendering Critical Medical Care to the Local Population of Katanga		Indian Troops Braving the Odds Against Inclement Weather and Terrain in Congo
Difficult Terrain Conditions in Congo		Demining Operation under Progress