Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s recent visit to the Siachen Glacier in Ladakh has garnered attention as he lauded the bravery and dedication of Indian Army soldiers stationed at the world’s highest battlefield. The Siachen Glacier, nestled at an altitude of approximately 20,000 feet within the Karakoram mountain range, symbolizes a crucial frontier for India’s national sovereignty.
During his visit to the Siachen Base Camp on Monday, April 22, Singh paid tribute to the soldiers by laying a wreath at the war memorial, honoring the sacrifices made by the “Bravehearts” who defend the country in such challenging terrain.
In his address to the troops, Singh praised their unwavering commitment, stating, “I congratulate you for the way you protect the country at the world’s highest battlefield, Siachen Glacier.” He emphasized the significance of Siachen as not just a geographical location but as a symbol of valor, courage, and national determination. Drawing a parallel, he described Siachen as the “capital of valor and courage,” akin to Delhi being the national capital, Mumbai the economic capital, and Bengaluru the technological capital of India.
Videos shared by news agency ANI captured the fervor of the interaction, with Singh chanting “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” alongside army personnel. He engaged with each soldier, learning about their names, designations, and hometowns, fostering a personal connection with the troops.
The Siachen Glacier’s strategic importance lies in its challenging conditions, where soldiers face extreme weather conditions, including frostbite and strong winds. Despite these adversities, the Indian Army has maintained a strong presence at Siachen for over four decades, marking 40 years of operational commitment on April 13.
Singh’s visit also highlighted the progress made in infrastructure development in the region, enhancing the army’s operational capabilities. The commemoration of “Operation Meghdoot,” which secured full control over the glacier in 1984, reflects India’s strategic resolve in safeguarding its borders.
A notable milestone was marked in January last year when Captain Shiva Chauhan, a female officer from the Army’s Corps of Engineers, was deployed to a frontline post in Siachen, marking a significant step towards gender inclusivity in critical operational roles.
Overall, Singh’s visit underscored the courage, dedication, and resilience exhibited by Indian Army personnel stationed at Siachen, reaffirming their pivotal role in safeguarding the nation’s security amidst formidable challenges.
Sources By Agencies
