India Revives Historic Gesture, Gifting Five Rare Peacocks to UN Office in Geneva

Geneva

India has restored a classic diplomatic tradition by gifting five Indian peacocks—including a rare white-feathered bird—to the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG).

At a special ceremony held in Geneva, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Arindam Bagchi, officially handed over the birds to UNOG Director-General Tatiana Valovaya. The gesture highlights India’s rich natural heritage alongside its commitment to multilateral cooperation and environmental protection.

Symbolism and Heritage

The flock consists of four classic blue peacocks and one white male peacock, beautifully mirroring the signature blue and white colors of the United Nations.

According to a statement from the Permanent Mission of India in Geneva, the gift reflects deep cultural values:

“The Indian peacock stands as a symbol of grace, strength, and beauty. This initiative underscores India’s enduring dedication to biodiversity preservation and environmental conservation.”

A Revival of History

This marks the second time India has gifted peacocks to the UN’s Geneva headquarters:

• 1981: Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi sent a breeding pair of peacocks sourced from the Delhi Zoo.
• Present Day: India revives the historic gesture with five young peacocks to enrich the local ecosystem.

Next Steps at Ariana Park

Expressing gratitude to the Indian government, UNOG Director-General Tatiana Valovaya welcomed the addition. Tobias Blaha, Director of the Geneva Biopark Zoo, remarked that the park provides an ideal habitat for the birds.

• Adaptation Phase: The peacocks will initially remain in a protected enclosure for approximately three months.
• Final Release: Following their acclimatization period, they will roam freely across Ariana Park—a sprawling 46-hectare historic estate that surrounds the Palais des Nations.