Article Posted on : - Feb 19, 2014

SRINAGAR (PTI): Union Minister of State for Defence Jitendra Singh visited Siachen Glacier on Feb. 18 and interacted with troops there.

"The minister carried out an aerial survey of the entire area and also landed at two forward posts on the glacier and interacted with the troops deployed there," a defence spokesman said.

Upon his arrival at the Siachen Base Camp, Singh paid homage to the brave soldiers who laid down their life in the sector, by laying a floral wreath at the Siachen War Memorial, the spokesman said.

The Minister was briefed about the military situation in Siachen Glacier and all along the Actual Ground Position Line.

Addressing the troops at the Siachen Base Camp, Singh applauded the efforts put in by the valiant soldiers in defending the country's frozen frontier and said that the best of equipment, clothing and rations will continue to be provided to ensure their high degree of operational preparedness.

He conveyed his happiness over the efforts put in by the army in rising up to the challenges presented by the peculiar terrain and harsh weather conditions in the area.

"The visit is being hailed as a great morale-booster for the troops deployed in the Siachen Glacier since the sector is experiencing harsh winters and the temperatures are dipping up to 50 degrees below freezing point," the spokesman said.

The Siachen Glacier has been defended by troops since 1984 in a special operation named 'Operation Meghdoot' which was launched to thwart Pakistan's efforts to establish an illegal foothold on the Saltoro ranges where the glacier is located.