India has made a significant move by promptly paying its 2026 dues of $35.187 million to the United Nations, joining the UN Honour Roll. The country’s contribution represents 1.016 per cent of the total 2016 regular budget of $3.45 billion, excluding peacekeeping operations. The UN, facing financial strain due to the US’s delayed payments, urged members to settle their dues early to ensure its financial stability.
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres cautioned member nations about the UN’s impending financial crisis, emphasizing the risk of operational insolvency by July if the US fails to clear its arrears. The Honour Roll acknowledges countries that settle their dues within 30 days of receiving the payment notice, with 47 nations, including India, currently listed. India’s total contribution to the UN’s regular budget amounts to $38.223 million, with a portion offset by income tax withholdings from Indian employees’ salaries.
Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, during his daily briefings, engages reporters in a quiz format to reveal contributing countries. Notably, India’s recent payment was disclosed through a clue referencing The Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue standing at 182 meters. Secretary-General Guterres visited this statue, honoring Sardar Vallabhai Patel, known for uniting India post-British rule. India’s share of the UN’s peacekeeping budget, totaling $5.38 billion, is 0.2212 per cent, with payments due in July.
