Retired Indian Army Lt General appointed member of UN panel

The initiative is part of a concerted effort by the departments of Peacekeeping Operations and Field Support to realise efficiency gains and cost savings from the use of new and emerging technologies and innovations.

The experts would advise on how these technologies can be leveraged to enable peacekeepers to respond more effectively to an increasing number of complex, multidimensional tasks in challenging field environments.

It would also examine how technological innovations can improve operational effectiveness, multiply impact and enhance safety and security of both peacekeepers and host communities.

The panel would be led by Jane Holl Lute of the United States, a seasoned expert on peace and security who is currently the Secretary-General's Special Adviser for Relocation of Camp Hurriya Residents Outside of Iraq.

The other members are Major General Michael Fryer of South Africa, Major General Ib Johannes Bager of Denmark and Walter Dorn of Canada.

The members have considerable experience and understanding of peacekeeping and in particular the need for new technologies and innovations to improve performance in carrying out the critical tasks entrusted to peacekeepers, the statement said.