Siachen Base Camp, April 2
Making the first-ever Presidential visit to the world’s highest battlefield, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam today said the 75 km long Siachen glacier was of “extreme geo-strategic importance” to India and told the troops “there is a comprehensive security plan while having a diplomatic approach to peace”.
Visiting the troops at Kumar advance post, Siachen base camp and the IAF personnel posted in areas adjoining Thoise airbase, he said the troops in the Siachen sector had to be always alert with very fast reaction time.
“But I can assure you that the nation is fully conscious of its
responsibility in enhancing troops’ survivability, sustainability, efficiency and motivation with cheers.
“The nation has a comprehensive security plan. We are also having a diplomatic
approach to peace; some positive and encouraging signs are visible along the western and northern borders,” the President said as he outlined to troops posted on the icy heights that there was now a sustained effort under way to modernise the three wings of the armed forces and equip them with latest technologies.
The President also disclosed that the Thoise air base would soon be expanded to enable take-off and landings by high performance fighters by next year. He also advocated that high altitude UAV system with appropriate sensors should be deployed in the area for carrying out
reconnaissance operations.
— PTI
