Question : ARMY PRESENCE IN SIACHEN

(a) whether the Government has taken cognizance of the move of Pakistan Government for demilitarisation of the Siachen glacier;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereto;

(c) whether the withdrawal of personnel from the Siachen will have any adverse effect on the strategic interest / advantage of the country; and

(d) if so, the steps taken or proposed to be taken by the Government in this regard?

MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI A.K. ANTONY)

(a) & (b): Talks have been held on the Siachen issue and various aspects have been discussed.

(c) & (d): The area of Siachen Glacier is an integral part of India. Deployment of troops in the area is based on threat perception and other operational issues so that national interest is not compromised.