Siachen Day 2024 Observed

Siachen Day, observed on April 13, commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of Indian Army soldiers serving at the highest battlefield in the world, the Siachen Glacier.

‘Operation Meghdoot’ was launched on the same day in 1984 to secure the glacier, strategically located near the Indo-Pak Line of Control. The glacier’s location in the Karakoram range holds strategic importance as it borders both Pakistan and China, leading to a dispute over ownership due to unclear demarcation. The conflict over Siachen began post-partition of India, with both countries asserting presence in the inhospitable region.

Operation Meghdoot pre-empted Pakistan’s plans to occupy the glacier, naming it after an ancient Indian epic. The operation is the costliest and longest ongoing military operation of the Indian Army. Soldiers in Siachen face harsh conditions, extreme weather, and difficult terrain, with training at the Siachen Battle School focusing on survival skills.

Despite the challenges, soldiers continue to serve in Siachen, facing altitude sickness and casualties due to the extreme conditions. Siachen remains a symbol of sacrifice and determination for the Indian Army.

About Operation Meghdoot

Operation Meghdoot was launched by the Indian Army on April 13, 1984, to secure control over the disputed Siachen Glacier region in the Himalayas. The operation was a successful pre-emptive military action as both India and Pakistan claimed sovereignty over the region.

The strategic importance of Siachen Glacier lies in its location at the Line of Control between India and Pakistan. Despite harsh weather conditions and high altitude, Indian troops continue to guard the region, making it one of the world’s highest battlegrounds.

About Siachen Glacier

The Siachen Glacier is in the eastern Karakoram range in the Himalayas, extending for about 76 kilometers. It is known as the highest battlefield on Earth, with India and Pakistan both maintaining military posts in the region. The extreme weather conditions make it a challenging and dangerous area, with temperatures dropping below -50°C. The glacier is a major source of water for the surrounding regions and is also a popular tourist destination, attracting adventurers and mountaineers from around the world.

About Siachen Dispute

The Siachen Glacier dispute was a conflict between India and Pakistan over control of the Siachen Glacier. Both countries have maintained military presence in the region since the mid-1980s. The dispute is due to the unclear boundary line in the region, leading to occasional skirmishes and loss of lives due to extreme weather conditions.

Month: Current Affairs - April, 2024

Category: Important Days & Events Current Affairs