Rajnath Singh reviewed security situation at world’s highest battlefield

• Rajnath Singh accompanied by Gen Manoj Pande reviews military preparedness at Siachen
• ‘Siachen is not an ordinary land, but a symbol of India’s sovereignty and determination’

Shyam Sood

Rajouri-Delhi, April 22: Raksha Mantri (Defence Minister) Rajnath Singh accompanied by Chief of Army Staff & other senior officers on Monday reviewed on-the-ground assessment of security situation, military preparedness at Siachen Glacier-the world’s highest battlefield.
The Defence Minister during the visit interacted with soldiers deployed in the extreme weather & tough terrain conditions at the world’s highest battlefield and also visited Kumar Post located at 15600 feet.
Rajnath Singh was accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande; General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar; and General Officer Commanding, 14 Corps Lieutenant General Rashim Bali.
The Defence Minister landed at a forward post at an altitude of 15100 feet and was given a detailed brief on the operational readiness in the Siachen Glacier & the prevalent security situation.
He also discussed the aspects associated with the operational challenges with the Commanders on ground.
Rajnath Singh lauded soldiers for walking on the virtuous path of protecting the motherland with valour and determination in extreme conditions.
He emphasised that “The nation will remain forever indebted to the Armed Forces personnel, as due to their sacrifices, every citizen feels safe. We are leading a peaceful life as we have an assurance that our brave soldiers stand steadfast at the borders<” said Defence Minister.
“In the times to come, when the history of national security is written, the acts of bravery & iron[1]clad will of our soldiers in the icy cold glacier will be remembered with pride. It will forever be an inspiration for future generations,” said Rajnath Singh.
“Siachen is not an ordinary land, but a symbol of India’s sovereignty and determination” said the Defence Minister.
“Just as Delhi is India’s national capital, Mumbai is the financial capital and Bengaluru is the technology capital; Siachen is the capital of courage, grit & determination,” said the Defence Minister.
Rajnath Singh termed the success of Operation Meghdoot-which was launched by the Indian Army in Siachen on April 13, 1984-as a golden chapter of the country’s military history.
“The success of Operation Meghdoot is a matter of pride for all of us,” he said.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid a wreath at the Siachen War Memorial, as a mark of solemn tribute to the bravehearts who have made the supreme sacrifice in service of the Motherland.
Rajnath Singh was scheduled to visit Siachen on March 24 to celebrate Holi with the soldiers deployed there visited Leh on March 24, 2024, and celebrated Holi with the troops but it was postponed due to adverse weather conditions.
From Leh, Rajnath Singh had spoken with the soldiers posted in Siachen over phone and told them that he will soon visit the world’s highest battlefield & interact with them.