Held on April 13 each year, Siachen Day commemorates Operation Meghdoot, launched by the Indian Army in 1984 to secure the strategically significant Siachen Glacier, known as the world’s highest battlefield.

A wreath-laying ceremony took place at the Siachen War Memorial. Senior military officers and veterans visited the base camp, interacting with troops to reaffirm their respect and solidarity, according to an official statement.

The day marks the 1984 launch of Operation Meghdoot, when the Indian Army gained full control over the Siachen Glacier, effectively countering rival claims over the region. The event celebrated the 41st anniversary of this significant military operation.

The Siachen area has been disputed between India and Pakistan since the 1949 Karachi Agreement, when the region remained undivided due to its hostile terrain and severe weather conditions.

India launched Operation Meghdoot as a response to what it terms Pakistan’s “cartographic aggression” in the Ladakh territory north of map reference NJ9842, where both countries agreed the Line of Control ended.

Intelligence reports indicating imminent Pakistani military action prompted India to secure strategic positions on Siachen by deploying troops through airlifts and supplying them via air drops to high-altitude airfields.

The operation’s main aim was to prevent the Pakistan Army’s capture of the Sia La and Bilafond La passes.

Commencing on April 13, 1984, the mission was notable as the first assault conducted on the world’s highest battlefield and was led by Lieutenant General Manohar Lal Chibber, Lieutenant General PN Hoon, and Major General Shiv Sharma.

This operation is regarded as a prime example of effective coordination between the Indian Army and the Air Force.