Situated in the awe-inspiring Karakoram Range, Siachen gained immense significance during the 1987 Operation Rajiv, a critical military operation that secured the glacier for India, making it a powerful symbol of both military importance and stunning natural beauty. Enclosed by towering snow-covered peaks, vast glaciers, and rugged landscapes, it offers a rare view of one of the most untouched and pristine environments on Earth. The harsh climate and remote location create an exceptional challenge, drawing adventurers seeking to experience nature in its purest and most unspoiled form. Siachen is not only a strategically vital region but also a testament to human perseverance and the allure of the extraordinary.
Note: Since Siachen is situated at an altitude more than 9000 feet above sea level, tourists are advised to follow the acclimatization process. Please refer to the PDF attached in the important links section.
Building on the success of Operation Meghdoot, India further solidified its control over the glacier by launching Operation Rajiv in 1987. It was a landmark mission to capture a critical peak along the Actual Ground Position Line on the Siachen Glacier. The peak, previously held by Pakistan and named Quaid Post, posed a significant threat to Indian movements on the glacier. Recognizing its strategic importance, the Indian Army launched multiple attempts to reclaim the post under treacherous conditions.
The final assault, led by Naib Subedar Bana Singh with unmatched courage, succeeded in capturing the peak. The post was renamed Bana Post in honor of his heroic leadership during the operation. Perched at an altitude exceeding 21,000 feet, Bana Post is one of the highest and most challenging military positions in the world. Operation Rajiv, named after Second Lieutenant Rajiv Pande, who fell during an earlier attempt, not only secured this vital location but also reinforced India’s dominance on the Siachen Glacier. It stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit and valour of the Indian Armed Forces.
CITATION
Nb Sub Bana Singh
8 JAK LI (JC-155825)
Naib Subedar Bana Singh volunteered to be a member of a task force constituted in June 1987 to clear an intrusion by an adversary in the Siachen Glacier area at an altitude of 21,000 feet. The post was virtually an impregnable glacier fortress with ice walls, 1500 feet high, on both sides. Naib Subedar Bana Singh led his men through an extremely difficult and hazardous route. He inspired them by his indomitable courage and leadership. The brave Naib Subedar and his men crawled and closed in on the adversary. Moving from trench to trench, lobbing hand grenades, and charging with the bayonet, he cleared the post all intruders.
Nb Subedar Bana Singh displayed the most conspicuous gallantry and leadership under the most adverse conditions.
Leh → Khardung La (38 km) → Panamik (142 km) → Siachen Base Camp (202 km) → Panamik (262 km) → Back to Leh (404 km)
