Operation Meghdoot

Operation Meghdoot

Operation Meghdoot, was in support of the Indian Army and paramilitary forces in Northern Ladakh, to secure control of the heights predominating the Siachin glacier, also referred to as the world’s third pole and potentially a dangerous flash point on the disputed Northern borders.

• • IAF Il-76s, An 12s and An 32s transported stores and troops, airdropped supplies to high altitude airfields while Mi-17s, Mi-8s, Chetaks and Cheetahs ferried men and material to dizzy heights far above the limits set by the helicopter manufacturers.
  • In fighting for this “roof-of-the world” since April 1984, the IAF’s incredible performance at the extremes of temperature and altitude, remains a continuing saga of fortitude and skill. Siachen operations actually started way back in 1978.
  • The operation was entrusted to one of the Kumaon Battalions, supported by Ladakh Scouts. Initial assault was led by Maj (later Col ) RS Sandhu, VrC. This military operation was unique because it was the first assault launched in world’s highest battlefield.

• During the operation, Indian troops landed on Bilafond La on Saltoro ridge, west of Siachen glacier, on Friday, April 13, 1984. It was a Baishakhi day.
• The operation resulted in Indian troops gaining control of the entire Siachen glacier, giving India strategic advantage and also maintaining status quo.
• Siachen not only gives India opportunity to test the mettle of its own troops but also useful for R&D in various military disciplines. 
• With occupying Siachen, India prides of sustaining its dominance on world’s highest battlefield, however has paid heavy price for it in the form of human costs.

Significance  

• The Karachi Agreement that was signed in July 1949 did not specify who had authority over Siachen Glacier. 
• In 1970s and 1980s, the Pakistan Government gave permission to mountaineering expeditions. India made its first air landing on the glacier in 1978. The conflict began when Pakistan allowed Japanese expedition to scale Rimo I (an important peak in the region) in 1984. 
• This increased the suspicion of Indian Government over Pakistan legitimising the glacier. This led to the launch of Operation Meghdoot.
• The Operation Meghdoot was launched on April 13, 1984. Under the operation, the Indian troops successfully gained control of entire Siachen glacier.