India has donated five peacocks to the United Nations Office in Geneva, including one rare white-feathered male. This gesture revives a long-standing tradition at the UN’s European headquarters. The formal handover took place on 10 August 2026, during a ceremony conducted by Arindam Bagchi, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva. The recipient of this unique gift was Tatiana Valovaya, the Director-General of UNOG.

This occasion marks the second instance in which India has provided peacocks to UNOG, a tradition that recalls India’s commitment to its natural heritage as well as its relationship with global institutions. The ceremonial exchange aims to promote multilateralism and international cooperation.

The donation consists of four blue peafowl and one white peacock, aligning with the colours associated with the United Nations. The Indian mission described the peacock as a symbol of grace and resilience, underscoring India’s ongoing dedication to biodiversity and environmental conservation.

Historical Context of the Gift

The practice of donating peacocks to the United Nations traces back to 1981 when Indira Gandhi, who was Prime Minister at the time, sent a breeding pair from the Delhi Zoo to UNOG. This historical precedent establishes a meaningful link between India’s cultural values and international diplomacy.

Tatiana Valovaya expressed gratitude to the Indian government for this generous donation, as reported by the Permanent Mission of India in Geneva. The peacocks will be cared for by the Geneva Bioparc zoo in collaboration with UN staff, ensuring their well-being in a suitable environment.

Peacocks at Ariana Park

The peacocks will initially reside in an enclosed area at Ariana Park for a period of approximately three months before being permitted to roam freely. Ariana Park, which spans 46 hectares, is one of Geneva’s most significant and prestigious parks. It serves as the location for the UN’s European headquarters.

The City of Geneva designated this park for the UN’s offices, a commitment that dates back to the establishment of the League of Nations. The presence of peacocks in the park has been a part of its history for over a century, owing largely to Swiss archaeologist Gustave Revilliod, who gifted the estate to the city in 1890.

Most of the peacocks currently in Ariana Park were donated by a Japanese zoo in 1997, contributing to the ongoing tradition of including these birds in the park’s landscape. The latest donation from India further enriches this celebrated legacy, reinforcing the connection between nature, culture, and international diplomacy in Geneva.

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