Amidst talk of resolving the standoff between India and Pakistan on the world's highest battlefield, army officials guarding Siachen appear to be averse to demilitarising the glacier which they say is vital for defence purposes."We hold 12 tactically important peaks on the glacier. Besides we have the advantage in Nubra and Shyok valleys. If we vacate the glacier, it will weaken our position," Brigadier Om Prakash, the commander of the unit responsible for guarding Siachen, said.He said Siachen is vital for the defence of the Ladakh region and if the glacier is demilitarised, the enemy would be able to dictate terms to New Delhi in this strategic region."India's hold on Siachen is a great disadvantage to Pakistan and blunts its expansionist design," Prakash said.Indian troops currently hold the Saltoro ridge that overlooks Pakistani positions, giving them a military advantage. It is, however, more difficult to supply the Indian positions, which are largely dependent on aerial support.Since four of the world's eight highest peaks are located in this region, mountaineers from across the globe come there for expeditions and bring in foreign exchange for the country's exchequer. "Besides, the area is a 5,000 sq km water reservoir which no one can ignore," Prakash said.New Delhi rushed troops to Siachen in 1984 following reports that Pakistan was allowing mountaineering expeditions to the glacier. (ACB)
