Prez Kovind becomes first President to step on land of Siachen in 14 years and salute our ‘jewels’ posted there

Siachen, May 10: President Ram Nath Kovind proudly shook hands with our soldiers who stay in such a situation where living a normal life is next to impossible that is Siachen. President Kovind today visited Siachen and became the first President to visit the place in 14 years and have an interaction with the soldiers.

While addressing soldiers posted at Siachen Base Camp, President Kovind said, “Every Indian is grateful to you and stands by you and your families.”

 

President Kovind further said that as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces and as the President of India, he has come among them carrying the gratitude of the entire country. The President noted that Siachen is the world’s highest battlefield and it is difficult to live even a normal life in the extreme climate. In such a situation, it is extraordinary for soldiers to stay in a state of constant mobilization and combat readiness. Their determination and dedication are worthy of the highest praise – and their allegiance to the defense of India is an ideal for all our fellow citizens.

 

The bravery and valor of soldiers deployed in Siachen over the past 34 years, the President said, has given every Indian the confidence that our borders are safe and secure. The President said he had come to Siachen to iterate to the troops posted here that all citizens of India and the Government of India were always with them and supportive of their families.

 

The President also paid his respects at the Siachen War Memorial, which is a symbol of the sacrifice of 11,000 soldiers and officers who have been martyred since the Indian Army began Operation Meghdoot on the Siachen Glacier on April 13, 1984.

He also visited the Kumar Post. President Kovind is the second President of India to visit Siachen. The previous visit was undertaken by President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam in April 2004.