The Indian Army celebrated the 40th anniversary of Operation Meghdoot, marking the operation conducted in the challenging terrain of the Siachen glaciers.

On this day in 1984, the Indian Army seized Bilafond La and other passes on the Saltoro Ridgeline, initiating 'Operation MEGHDOOT'. Since then, it has been a tale of bravery and resilience amidst a hostile adversary, difficult terrain, and harsh weather conditions.

The Indian Army highlighted significant advancements in bolstering operational capabilities in the Siachen Glacier region, including the introduction of heavy-lift helicopters and logistical drones. These additions have greatly improved the transportation of essential supplies to personnel stationed in isolated posts, particularly during harsh winter months.

Furthermore, the Indian Army noted that the provision of specialised clothing, mountaineering gear, and advanced rations has strengthened soldiers' ability to endure the extreme conditions of the world's coldest battlefield. Additionally, soldiers are equipped with Pocket Weather Trackers, enabling them to receive real-time weather updates and alerts about potential avalanches.

According to the Indian Army, there has been significant progress in enhancing mobility in the Siachen Glacier region. The establishment of an extensive network of tracks and the introduction of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) have notably improved transportation across the glacier.

Innovative solutions such as the DRDO-developed ATV bridges have enabled the army to overcome natural obstacles, while the use of high-quality Dyneema ropes in aerial cableways ensures uninterrupted supply lines to even the most remote outposts.

Furthermore, mobile and data connectivity has seen considerable advancements. The adoption of VSAT technology has transformed communication on the glacier, providing troops with data and internet connectivity. This technological advancement has bolstered real-time situational awareness, telemedicine capabilities, and the overall well-being of soldiers by facilitating connectivity with their families, the Army stated.

The Indian Army highlighted recent initiatives aimed at improving connectivity, ensuring that personnel stationed in forward posts in the Northern and Central Glaciers now have access to fresh rations and vegetables, a development previously unimaginable.

"Thanks to new logistic initiatives, fresh rations and vegetables are now a reality for our forward posts," the Army stated. It also underscored the establishment of state-of-the-art medical infrastructure at Siachen, including telemedicine nodes by ISRO, providing critical medical support not only to troops but also to the local populace and tourists in the Nubra Valley.

Furthermore, the medical facilities in Partapur and Base Camp feature some of the country's best medical and surgical specialists, alongside state-of-the-art HAPO chambers, oxygen generation plants, and life support systems, ensuring maximum efforts are made to save lives in this challenging terrain.

The Army emphasised its focus on sustainability through green energy initiatives, including the adoption of solar power plants, wind, and fuel cell-based generators, resulting in a significant reduction in carbon footprint. Waste management initiatives, including the transportation of plastic waste for recycling, have also been implemented to conserve the environment and protect sensitive glaciers.

Efforts to preserve the ecological balance of glaciers have been prioritised, with initiatives such as backloading waste from the glaciers in exchange for helicopter sorties and the introduction of new-generation Zanskar Ponies.

An MoU between the Indian Army and a private firm allows plastic waste from Siachen Glacier to be recycled into jackets in Tamil Nadu. The Army and locals in Shyok and Nubra Valleys jointly manage waste in Partapur, aiming for a greener Siachen. Partapur was named the best military station for green initiatives in J&K.

Image source: ANI