OPERATION MEGHDOOT (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Security)

Context: The Indian Army recently marked the 40th anniversary of the commencement of 'Operation Meghdoot', which secured the Siachen Glacier.

Operation Meghdoot

• Launched: April 13, 1984
• Joint Military Action: Operation Meghdoot demonstrated exceptional coordination between the Indian Army and Air Force.
• Response to Cartographic Aggression: Operation Meghdoot was India's response to Pakistan's attempts to alter maps in the Ladakh region.
• Historical Context: Siachen has been disputed since the Karachi Agreement of 1949 due to its harsh terrain and extreme weather.
• Pre-emptive Action: Indian forces took action to secure strategic heights on Siachen based on intelligence about impending Pakistani military moves.
• Objective: The operation aimed to prevent Pakistan from seizing key passes, namely Sia La and Bilafond La.
• Outcome: Indian forces successfully gained control over the entire Siachen Glacier, securing a crucial strategic advantage.
• Strategic Importance of Siachen: It dominates several key areas, including Shaksgam Valley, Gilgit Baltistan routes, and Karakoram Pass, enhancing India's defensive position.
• Control of Indian Territory: Siachen's strategic location also allows observation of Indian territory occupied by Pakistan, such as Gilgit Baltistan.