Srinagar, Apr22: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visitedSiachen, the world’s highest battlefield, to assess security and honour the courageous soldiers stationed there.
Accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande and other key figures, Singh’s presence was a symbol of solidarity with India’s frontline defenders.
Addressing the soldiers, Singh expressed regret over a previous postponement due to adverse weather conditions but fulfilled his promise to stand alongside the brave hearts safeguarding India’s borders. He praised their unwavering dedication and sacrifice, emphasizing their status as true heroes for the nation.
“I made my promise today and today I am in between you all. It is my honour to visit brave hearts who are safeguarding our borders. Soldiers serving the nation at Siachen glacier are the real heroes and not less than the ‘devtas’ for the people of India,” he said.
The Defence Minister said that serving the nation in such a place where cold conditions freeze the bones is something the entire country is proud of.
“The Government of India under the leadership of Prime Minister NarenderaModi is committed to serve the soldiers and take care of their families and children,” he said.
“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.
“Siachen is not an ordinary land, but a symbol of India’s sovereignty and determination. 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,” Singh said.
He also said that the nation recently celebrated the 40th anniversary of the success of Operation Meghdoot. The Defense Minister termed the operation, 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.
In a solemn gesture of respect, Singh laid a wreath at the Siachen War Memorial, honoring the supreme sacrifice made by soldiers in service of the Motherland. Prior to this tribute, he received a comprehensive briefing on operational readiness and security challenges from commanders on the ground.
Earlier after brief welcome, Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh 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.
In March this year, DM Singh visited Leh and celebrated Holi with the troops. Although scheduled to visit Siachen, adverse weather conditions led to a postponement.
He also spoke with soldiers posted in Siachen over the phone, assuring them of his forthcoming visit to the world’s highest battlefield for interaction.
