Context

Operation Meghdoot completed 40 years after the commencement of presence of the Indian Army on the Siachen Glacier.

Operation Meghdoot 1984

• Background: By 1984, Pakistan’s cartographic aggression in the uncharted territory of Ladakh, allowing foreign mountaineering expeditions in Siachen, was becoming a cause of concern. 
  • To prevent an impending Pakistani military action in the area, India decided to thwart Pakistan’s efforts to legitimize its claim on Siachen. 
• Operation Meghdoot: It was launched by the Indian Army to secure strategic heights on Siachen with the deployment of troops. 
• The operation involved the airlifting of Indian Army soldiers by the IAF and dropping them on the glacial peaks. 

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• • Although the operation began in 1984, IAF helicopters were already operating in the Siachen Glacier since 1978, flying the Chetak helicopters which was the first IAF helicopter to land in the Glacier in  October 1978.
• Positioning of Troops: About 300-odd troops were positioned on the strategically important peaks and passes of the glacier. 
  • By the time the Pakistan army reacted by advancing its own troops, the Indian Army occupied strategically crucial mountain peaks and passes, thereby gaining a tactical advantage.
• IAF’s Role and Evolution in Operation Meghdoot: The IAF played a crucial role in supporting Operation Meghdoot, initially focusing on transport and helicopter aircraft for troop and material transport. 
  • Gradually, the IAF expanded its role, deploying fighter aircraft like the Hunter, MiG-23s, and MiG-29s, operating from high-altitude airfields at Leh and Thoise. 
  • This expanded role included fighter sweeps and simulated strikes over the glacier, boosting morale and deterring adversaries.
  • In 2009, the IAF inducted Cheetal helicopters, re-engineered for high-altitude operations, and in 2013, showcased its capabilities by landing a Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules at Daulat Beg Oldie.
    • Daulat Beg Oldie is the world’s highest airstrip near the line of actual control in Ladakh. 

Significance of Operation Meghdoot

• Technological Progress and Infrastructure Development: Over the last four decades, significant efforts have been made to enhance infrastructure and habitat on the Siachen Glacier. 
  • Example-Introduction of VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) technology has revolutionized communication on the glacier providing troops with crucial data and internet connectivity.
• Enhanced Supply Chain and Logistics: The introduction of heavy-lift helicopters and logistic drones significantly improved the supply of essential resources to personnel stationed at isolated posts, especially during harsh winter conditions. 
  • This includes ensuring the availability of clothing, mountaineering equipment, and rations.
• Improved Living Conditions and Connectivity: Recent initiatives have focused on improving connectivity, leading to advancements in the supply chain. 
• State-of-the-Art Medical Infrastructure: The Siachen Glacier now has state-of-the-art medical infrastructure, including telemedicine nodes established by ISRO. 
  • These facilities provide critical medical support not only to troops but also to the local populace and tourists in the Nubra Valley.

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