1.      Genesis.   Somalia witnessed turmoil since 1969 due to extra regional influences and inter-clan, political fault lines. The polarized conflict led to huge humanitarian crises with a large portion of the population facing famine. The humanitarian crises promoted the world to initiate action to alleviate the suffering of people. In 1992, the UN was successful in negotiating a ceasefire between the belligerent factions; established a peacekeeping mission in Somalia (UNSOM I) with a small observers force and force protection battalion. UN Security Council also authorised USA to lead a Multinational Unified Task Force to deliver humanitarian assistance to Somalia. Both the missions were not successful due to ongoing inter-clan violence. In order to ensure more vigorous implementation of UN mandate, UN established UNSOM II with a greater operational strength, on 06 June 1993. The mandate laid specific emphasis on disarmament of the Armed Groups; facilitate return of refugees and Internally Displaced Persons and rebuilding of Somalian society.

2.    Contribution.    India contributed one Infantry Brigade Group with three Infantry Battalions, Mechanized Infantry Battalion, Independent Armoured Squadron, Artillery Battery, Engineer Company, Signals Company, Field Ambulance and other supporting elements. Apart from the Indian Army deployment, the Indian Navy also deployed a maritime task force consisting of six ships for delivery of humanitarian assistance. The Indian Brigade was responsible for the largest area and covered 1/3^rd of the Somalian territory. The Indian units under the dynamic leadership of Brigadier MS Bhagat, carried out aggressive patrolling and area domination, conducted search operations which led to recovery of large scale of arms and ammunition. The Indian contingents fought gallantly against the ever increasing violence by the Somalian Armed Groups. The contingents extended the humanitarian assistance and the performance of the Indian medical and veterinary teams was commendable. The Indian contingents also played an active role in the national rebuilding process and were involved in infrastructure development projects. Brigadier MS Bhagat was awarded PVSM for his exemplary leadership to ensure accomplishment of tasks inspite of the multifarious challenges. The UNSOM II was withdrawn as the mission was not given a further extension by the Security Council and the violence continued abated, especially in areas outside the area of responsibility of the Indian Brigade.