869 Indian soldiers have died in Siachen since 1984

NEW DELHI: A total of 869 Indian soldiers have died in Siachen since 1984 due to climatic conditions, environmental and other factors, the government said today.

The government has also spent over Rs 7,500 crore for procurement of clothing and mountaineering equipment for soldiers posted in high-altitude areas.

In a written reply to Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Defence Rao Inderjit Singh said that the total number of officers who have died at Siachen Glacier on 'Operation Meghdoot' from 1984 till date due to climatic conditions, environmental and other factors are 33.

Besides them, 54 JCOs have lost their lives while casualties from other ranks are 782.

He said that out of 55 items of clothing and mountaineering equipments, only 20 items are imported.

Giving details of expenditure, Singh said Rs 2280.5430 crore was spent in 2012-13 while in 2013-14, Rs 1919.3100 crore was spent.

In 2014-15, Rs 2366.5943 crore was spent and Rs 938.5400 crore has been spent this year till November 30.

The Minister said that steps taken for upgradation include constant search for newer items which will save lives and increase the combat efficiency of troops deployed in very high-altitude areas like Siachen.

A Seminar with Indian Technical Textile Association was held in February this year, followed by trial of items at Siachen Glacier and sharing of trial reports with Indian industry for further improvement to meet the stringent requirements of such areas, the Minister said.