Rajnath Singh Visits Siachen for Ground Assessment of the Security Situation
Defence minister Rajnath Singh visited Siachen on 22 April 2024 to get a first-hand assessment of the security situation. Post the aerial reconnaissance, the Singh landed at a forward post at an altitude of 15,100 feet. He was given a detailed briefing on the operational readiness on the Glacier and the security situation. He also discussed the aspects associated with the operational challenges with the Commanders on ground. He was accompanied by the Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Lieutenant General M.V. Suchindra Kumar, and General Officer Commanding, 14 Corps Lieutenant General Rashim Bali.
Later the defence minister interacted with the soldiers deployed on the glacier. Addressing the soldiers, he lauded them 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. In the times to come, when the history of national security is written, the acts of bravery and iron-clad will of our soldiers in the icy cold glacier will be remembered with pride. It will forever be an inspiration for future generations,” he said.
Singh described Siachen as not an ordinary land, but a symbol of India’s sovereignty and determination. He stated that 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.
Talking of Operation Meghdoot (for the capture of Siachen), whose 40th anniversary was celebrated on 13 April 2024, Singh said that it was a golden chapter in the country’s military history. “The success of Operation Meghdoot is a matter of pride for all of us,” he said. Singh also laid a wreath at the Siachen War Memorial. Incidentally, when Singh had visited Leh on March 24 to celebrate Holi with the troops, he was scheduled to visit Siachen too. But the visit was postponed due to adverse weather conditions. However, he had spoken with the soldiers posted in Siachen over the phone and told them that he would visit them soon.