New Delhi/IBNS: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Monday visited Siachen, the world’s highest battlefield, to carry out a first-hand assessment of the security situation.

He also interacted with the soldiers deployed in extreme weather and tough terrain conditions.

The Defence Minister was accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande; General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar; and General Officer Commanding, 14 Corps Lieutenant General Rashim Bali.

Post the aerial reconnaissance, Singh landed at a forward post at an altitude of 15,100 feet and was given a detailed brief on the operational readiness in the Siachen Glacier and the prevalent security situation.

He also discussed the aspects associated with the operational challenges with the Commanders on the ground.

Addressing the soldiers, Singh lauded them for walking on the virtuous path of protecting the motherland with valour and determination in extreme conditions.

He emphasised that the nation will remain forever indebted to the Armed Forces personnel, as due to their sacrifices, every citizen feels safe.

“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 & 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.

Singh described Siachen as not an ordinary land, but a symbol of India’s sovereignty and determination.

He stated that 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.

The nation recently celebrated the 40th anniversary of the success of Operation Meghdoot.

"Singh 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.

On the occasion, the Defence Minister laid a wreath at the Siachen War Memorial, as a mark of solemn tribute to the bravehearts who have made the supreme sacrifice in service of the Motherland.

It may be recalled that Singh visited Leh on March 24 and celebrated Holi with the troops.

He was scheduled to visit Siachen, but it was postponed due to adverse weather conditions. From Leh, the Defence Minister had spoken with the soldiers posted in Siachen over the phone and told them that he would soon visit the world’s highest battlefield & interact with them.