(a) whether the Government has contemplated a scheme of opening Siachen to tourists;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether neighbouring countries have opposed the said scheme threatening that it will
affect the ongoing peace-talks;
(d) if so, the details thereof and the reaction of the Government thereon; and
(e) whether foreign tourists will also be permitted to visit Siachen?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE (SHRI A.K. ANTONY)
(a) to (e): A Statement is attached.
STATEMENT REFERRED TO IN REPLY TO PARTS (a) TO (e) OF LOK SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 222 FOR
ANSWER ON 19.11.2007
The area mentioned in the question falls within the State of Jammu & Kashmir which is an
integral part of India. Trekking expeditions have been taking place in the area subject to
appropriate clearance.
In September 2007, the Government of Pakistan protested against the trekking expeditions
in the Siachen area expressing their deep concern over the media reports in this regard and
stating that Siachen issue is being discussed within the framework of the Composite Dialogue.
Suitable reply was given to Government of Pakistan clarifying that trekking expeditions
have been taking place in the past and India does not see how these will have an adverse impact
on the dialogue process.