President Murmu visits Siachen base camp

New Delhi, Sep 26: President of India, Droupadi Murmu made a visit to the Siachen base camp on Thursday where she paid homage at the Siachen War Memorial, a monument honouring the sacrifice of soldiers who have laid down their lives since the commencement of Operation Meghdoot.

Operation Meghdoot, launched by the Army on April 13, 1984, marked the beginning of India's strategic control over the Siachen Glacier, one of the most challenging military postings in the world.

During her address to the soldiers stationed at the base camp, President Murmu expressed her immense pride as the supreme commander of the armed forces.

“Every citizen of the country salutes your bravery,” she said, acknowledging the soldiers’ unwavering dedication to safeguarding the nation's borders under some of the most extreme conditions on the planet.

Since the onset of Operation Meghdoot, soldiers of the country’s armed forces have remained steadfast in their duty to protect this region, despite facing relentless challenges including weather conditions.

The President highlighted the brutal conditions in which these soldiers serve, enduring heavy snowfall and temperatures plunging to minus 50 degrees Celsius.

“Despite these hardships, they stand vigilant and devoted to their mission, setting extraordinary examples of sacrifice and resilience in the defense of the motherland,” she said.

President Murmu’s visit highlights the importance of the Siachen Glacier, often referred to as the world’s highest battlefield, where Indian soldiers have been defending the nation's borders for over four decades.

She assured the soldiers that the entire country was aware of their sacrifice and held a deep respect for their service.