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Beyond NJ 9842: The Siachen Saga
Military history
- GenresNonfictionIndiaWar
300 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2014
38 people are currently reading
344 people want to read
About the author
Nitin A. Gokhale
13 books38 followersNitin A. Gokhale , one of South Asia’s leading Strategic Analysts, is a renowned author, media trainer and founder of a specialised defence-related website BharatShakti.in.
After working for 32 years as a media practitioner across print, web and broadcast mediums, during which he reported on India’s North-East, focusing on the different insurgencies there, the 1999 Kargil conflict between India and Pakistan and the Sri Lankan Eelam War IV to name a few, he is now a full-time author and part-time media entrepreneur since December 2014.
Author of five books so far on insurgencies, wars and conflicts, he is visiting faculty at all Indian Defence training institutions like the National Defence College, all the three war colleges, the College of Defence Management and the Defence Services Staff College, besides being a popular speaker at various seminars and symposiums on civil military relations, insurgency/terrorism, Asian security Affairs and military-media relations. His previous books include Beyond NJ 9842:The Siachen Saga, 1965 Turning the Tide: How India won the War and Sri Lanka: From War to Peace.
Gokhale also appears on News Channels as a commentator and writes regular columns for various publications besides hosting a television show—India First—for India’s national broadcaster, Doordarshan.
After working for 32 years as a media practitioner across print, web and broadcast mediums, during which he reported on India’s North-East, focusing on the different insurgencies there, the 1999 Kargil conflict between India and Pakistan and the Sri Lankan Eelam War IV to name a few, he is now a full-time author and part-time media entrepreneur since December 2014.
Author of five books so far on insurgencies, wars and conflicts, he is visiting faculty at all Indian Defence training institutions like the National Defence College, all the three war colleges, the College of Defence Management and the Defence Services Staff College, besides being a popular speaker at various seminars and symposiums on civil military relations, insurgency/terrorism, Asian security Affairs and military-media relations. His previous books include Beyond NJ 9842:The Siachen Saga, 1965 Turning the Tide: How India won the War and Sri Lanka: From War to Peace.
Gokhale also appears on News Channels as a commentator and writes regular columns for various publications besides hosting a television show—India First—for India’s national broadcaster, Doordarshan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
June 15, 2014
This book is an authentic account of how Siachen - the highest battlefield in the world - became a military flashpoint for India and Pakistan over the years. The book covers the history behind the Indian force deployment at Siachen and the military and political implications of the conflict.
The author is a renowned journalist, author and TV reporter, with many years of field experience behind him. The way the book is written and presented clearly brings out that knowledge and command over the subject.
The book not only explains how the present day Siachen situation came along, but also goes deeper in the thought process of various armed force operatives involved in the conflict. The author brings out the human side of the situation, narrating first hand experiences of a variety of armed force personnel, which gives a ring side view of the difficulty Indian forces experience in holding such a place. The author also talks about the military innovations and use of technology to solve problems of fighting at great heights - small achievements which the mainstream media does not report on usually.
The book is printed on very high quality glossy paper with a bunch of colored pictures. This enhances the quality of the book reading experience even more - one of those books where Kindle does not work!
A few issues as well - the book has 2 maps of the region, one zoomed in and one zoomed out. Neither provide the right level of detailing of the places mentioned in the text. Another more detailed map - 1 or 2 pages, would have greatly enhanced the value of the book and reader experience. Another issue was that the author includes accounts from other journalists towards the end - these accounts are nowhere as rich as what the author has written and as you are closing the book, stand out jarringly, reducing the impact of the great build up.
Barring these couple of issues, this is a great book for anyone interested in reading about military history and conflicts.
The author is a renowned journalist, author and TV reporter, with many years of field experience behind him. The way the book is written and presented clearly brings out that knowledge and command over the subject.
The book not only explains how the present day Siachen situation came along, but also goes deeper in the thought process of various armed force operatives involved in the conflict. The author brings out the human side of the situation, narrating first hand experiences of a variety of armed force personnel, which gives a ring side view of the difficulty Indian forces experience in holding such a place. The author also talks about the military innovations and use of technology to solve problems of fighting at great heights - small achievements which the mainstream media does not report on usually.
The book is printed on very high quality glossy paper with a bunch of colored pictures. This enhances the quality of the book reading experience even more - one of those books where Kindle does not work!
A few issues as well - the book has 2 maps of the region, one zoomed in and one zoomed out. Neither provide the right level of detailing of the places mentioned in the text. Another more detailed map - 1 or 2 pages, would have greatly enhanced the value of the book and reader experience. Another issue was that the author includes accounts from other journalists towards the end - these accounts are nowhere as rich as what the author has written and as you are closing the book, stand out jarringly, reducing the impact of the great build up.
Barring these couple of issues, this is a great book for anyone interested in reading about military history and conflicts.
March 17, 2019
4.5 stars
Read this, not just to understand the significance and importance of the glacier for India, but to fathom what it takes to guard the farthest corners of the country and the extreme level of commitment, courage and sacrifices of the Indian soldier, many of which are unheard of and lost to the rest of us. Reading the verbatim anecdotes and stories allows one to really see and connect with the spirit and psyche of these soldiers, as they continue to perform their duties in the most extreme conditions possible.
My only problem with the book is its poor editing / proof reading standards. In many places a word or article are missing, but the most irritating bit is the overuse and poor use of exclamation marks. This really bothered me.
This is the second book I've read by this author and publisher and I'm quite surprised and disappointed by their consistently poor editing and production quality.
Read this, not just to understand the significance and importance of the glacier for India, but to fathom what it takes to guard the farthest corners of the country and the extreme level of commitment, courage and sacrifices of the Indian soldier, many of which are unheard of and lost to the rest of us. Reading the verbatim anecdotes and stories allows one to really see and connect with the spirit and psyche of these soldiers, as they continue to perform their duties in the most extreme conditions possible.
My only problem with the book is its poor editing / proof reading standards. In many places a word or article are missing, but the most irritating bit is the overuse and poor use of exclamation marks. This really bothered me.
This is the second book I've read by this author and publisher and I'm quite surprised and disappointed by their consistently poor editing and production quality.
September 6, 2015
This was a surprise. It is a very readable book about Siachen. Covers almost everything in a language that a relative layman can understand pretty easily.
It makes you wonder how, one small misinterpretation in the 1949 Karachi agreement about a general direction would lead to such an unforeseen butterfly effect. The part involving the air force ops, the three battles around the Bana Top, and the medical difficulties are flawlessly described. Not ignored were the occasional anecdotes of bravery from the other side, too.
As with everything Siachen, I conclude this with the traditional "OP Baba ki Jai'.
It makes you wonder how, one small misinterpretation in the 1949 Karachi agreement about a general direction would lead to such an unforeseen butterfly effect. The part involving the air force ops, the three battles around the Bana Top, and the medical difficulties are flawlessly described. Not ignored were the occasional anecdotes of bravery from the other side, too.
As with everything Siachen, I conclude this with the traditional "OP Baba ki Jai'.
December 18, 2016
An exceptionally well written piece on the Siachen glacier. Has a very detailed history of the glacier and how it's importance has increased to what it is today. Very well documented experiences of soldiers and Air Force pilots about the challenges they faced at those inhuman altitudes.
The book is very well backed up by the images of the glacier and the living conditions there. However what I found missing was a detailed topographic map showing the peaks and areas covered by the forces.
Overall a must read for anyone remotely interested to know about the hardships faced by soldiers at the highest battlefield of the planet!
The book is very well backed up by the images of the glacier and the living conditions there. However what I found missing was a detailed topographic map showing the peaks and areas covered by the forces.
Overall a must read for anyone remotely interested to know about the hardships faced by soldiers at the highest battlefield of the planet!
March 8, 2016
The story of the world's highest battlefield told through the eyes of the men defending it. If you are looking for serious analysis, then you might like to skip this book. This book focuses on the human aspect of the battle for control of the roof of the world. Overall a very good book filled with interviews with the officers and soldiers who were in charge of the operations. I especially loved the numerous anecdotes shared by the officers and men to the author.
May 18, 2020
Letter No. A/35501/XM03 dated 31 Mar 1984, and issued by the Indian Army Headquarters listed out what on paper seems pretty prosaic and fundamental objectives – “Tasks in General: Secure the Siachen glacier. Tasks in particular: Secure Bilafond La, Sia La, Siachen, Lolofond and Teram Sehar glacier. Patrol up to Indira Col. Prevent Pakistan sponsored infiltration in the area.” – unless one happens to grasp the geographical dimensions of the places mentioned in the letter.
That is exactly what Nitin Gokhale attempts to do, and comes up triumph. In his supremely well-crafted book “The Siachen Saga”, Mr. Gokhale regales his readers with the exemplary acts of courage and sacrifice executed by the Indian Army on some of the most desolate and inhospitable terrains on Planet Earth. The staid letter issued by the Army HQ signaled the beginning of “Operation Meghdoot”, which is now in its fourth successful decade. The tri colour proudly flutters at a near impossible height of 22,000 ft., maniacally protected and gently nurtured by a band of heroes, whose achievements dwarf most of what any Armed forces have been able to accomplish in a similar landscape.
The Siachen saga, began with a cartographical act of tomfoolery. As Mr. Gokhale illustrates with a mixture of humour and incredulity, a rafting expedition facilitated by Col Narinder ‘Bull’ Kumar, led to one of India’s most famous intrepid military mountaineers obtain possession of “maps that indicated ‘cartographic aggression’ by Pakistan on the Siachen glacier and the quiet alteration to the map of the Karakoram Range of mountains!” The cartographical manipulation smelt of stinking fish especially when the Col observed that the ceasefire line (commonly referred to as the Line of Control or LoC) that ended at map grid reference NJ 9842 now surprisingly had an extension up to the Karakoram Pass (north-east of NJ9842), instead of going northwards along the natural ridgeline. This clearly signaled an intent on the part of Pakistan to covertly occupy the heights of Siachen thereby rendering it an unrivaled advantage over its neighbour across the border.
Subsequent to a few ostensibly innocuous mountaineering missions bearing even more innocuous names such as Ibex I & II, Polar Bear I & II, the Indian Army finally launched Operation Meghdoot, thereby catching their Pakistani counterparts completely and conclusively off guard. As Mr. Gokhale illustrates, the loss of Siachen is a permanent rankle and an eyesore in the annals of Pakistani Military history, and multiple incursions, both suicidal and surreptitious have been attempted by the Pakistani Army at futile attempts of redemption.
The highlight of Mr. Gokhale’ s book is his interaction with the past, and present heroes of Siachen who have commanded posts at unimaginable heights and braved conditions unthinkable. This chronicling lends a degree pf perspective to the reader that is at once, profound, poignant and pertinent. For example, the litany of physical woes that a soldier is forced to endure at such rarefied heights range from the serious to the fatal. The ailments accosting a soldier include acute mountain sickness (AMS), High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPO), High Altitude Cerebral Oedema (HACO), snow blindness, sunburns, hypothermia, chill blains and frost bite. But as Mr. Gokhale explains, over the years the medical infrastructure, along with the logistical chains has been bolstered in an impeccable fashion. However, as one would fathom from a reading of the book, things were not always on the side of the soldier. Even worse than the vagaries of the weather were an all permeating red tapism.
The nauseating stench of bureaucracy is laid bare in its intransigent detail by Mr. Gokhale. Until the appointment of the irreverent, irascible and dynamic George Fernandes as the Minister of Defense, the troops in Siachen had to bank on the mercies of a stoic bunch of politicians and civil service personnel, who snugly ensconced within the confines of New Delhi, had no grasp whatsoever of the plight of their Army men in the Glacier. A request for the basic mode of transportation such as snow scooters was met with objections ranging from the sublime to the silly. “It first questioned the veracity of the breakdown rates, then the quality of training imparted to users, then the cost-effectiveness of the machines against porters and finally, the need to have them altogether. On one occasion, when a few snow scooters were sanctioned after some years of denial, the troops on the glacier asked that special prayers of thanks be offered to the regimental deity. The story may be apocryphal, but it shows how gallant soldiers are reduced to seeking divine intervention against insensitive official processes.”
Mr. Fernandes, popularly known as the “Siachen Minister” for his propensity to visit the Glacier (more than three dozen times), ended the bureaucratic rigmarole using an ingenious method. A method that sent a shiver running down the spine of the concerned irresponsible bureaucrat. Any one engaged or indulging in the act of procrastination would be ‘banished’ to the Glacier for a week!
Mr. Gokhale illustrates the beautiful symmetry and symbiosis between the Army and the Air Force that has allowed India to maintain its unmatched supremacy in the Siachen Glacier since Operation Meghdoot. Assisting the Army in ensuring that there is an unending stream of supplies, is a group of helicopters whose sorties are looked forward to by unbridled delight and glee by the soldiers. To paraphrase Mr. Gokhale,” The mainstay is the single engine Cheetah (successor of the Chetak helicopter), now manufactured at the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) facility in Bangalore. Originally produced in 1962 in France as Aerospatiale SA 319 Alouette III (known in India as Chetak), its upgraded version, the SA 315 B Lama began licensed production at HAL in 1971. This helicopter came to be known as Cheetah which is the mainstay of 114 HU since 1984! Although it has the ability to operate at the extreme flight envelope limit of 23,000 feet routinely, a single engine helicopter is fraught with risk in normal circumstances. In Ladakh and especially on the Siachen Glacier, the risks multiply manifold.” No wonder Leh is deemed to be the “Mecca” of helicopter flying.
Mr. Gokhale also reveals hair raising details of hand to hand combats engaged in by the Indian Army with buccaneering Pakistani invaders and capturing of various isolated posts. He also informs his readers about the convention employed by the Armed Forces in according names to the posts. The posts are named, “mostly after soldiers who ventured into the unknown and established Indian presence. So you have several posts—Ajay, Bhim-Sonam, Amar, to cite just a few—named after daring warriors) into a formidable locality.”
But many of the deeds of gallantry performed astonishingly in such a rarefied atmosphere is more often than not confined and consigned to the folklore of the Armed Forces. This is a travesty of the highest order and one that ought to be remedied post haste. It is here that the stellar efforts of the likes of Mr. Gokale will greatly aid and abet in disseminating these acts of unparalleled bravery into the mainstream. These are acts because of which India finds herself, safe, secure and sound. A classic example is the Param Vir Chakra (the nation’s epochal recognition in bravery) bestowed upon Naib Subedar Bana Singh courtesy a death defying operation termed Operation Rajib in honour of a fallen comrade. “Naib Subedar Bana Singh was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, the highest wartime gallantry medal in India, for conspicuous bravery and leadership under most adverse conditions. “Operation Rajiv” overall, resulted in the award of one MVC (for Subedar Sansar Singh), seven Vir Chakras and one Sena Medal, besides the PVC. The CO and the Commander were awarded UYSMs. 8 JAK LI and 102 Infantry Brigade had reason to be proud; very proud indeed, for their stupendous skill at arms in the toughest high altitude terrain the world has ever known so far.”
“The Siachen Saga” contains many such riveting, reinvigorating and reverberating tales of unselfish courage, uninhibited sacrifice and unparalleled demonstration of responding to calls way beyond one’s duty. This is what makes the Indian Army one of the most vaunted, revered, respected and feared in the world. More than anything else this is what makes a nation of a billion clock an incalculable debt of gratitude towards its brave hearts. A debt that can never ever be repaid.
But for the time being, the least we can do is celebrate with gay abandon the feats of these gladiators of the mountains, acknowledge their achievements and shed a tear of unbridled euphoria. If there is anything whiter than the snow even it is the conscience of these soldiers and if there is anything purer than the air at such dizzying heights, it is the unsullied soul of the man clad in high altitude gear, holding a weapon close to his chest and trying to fight off not just sleep but a temperature that is MINUS 60 DEGREES! Just so that we can sleep undisturbed.
“The Siachen Saga” is Mr. Gokhale’ s monumental and most welcome tribute to the Indian Armed Forces and must be made mandatory reading at all schools and Universities.
JAI HIND!!!
That is exactly what Nitin Gokhale attempts to do, and comes up triumph. In his supremely well-crafted book “The Siachen Saga”, Mr. Gokhale regales his readers with the exemplary acts of courage and sacrifice executed by the Indian Army on some of the most desolate and inhospitable terrains on Planet Earth. The staid letter issued by the Army HQ signaled the beginning of “Operation Meghdoot”, which is now in its fourth successful decade. The tri colour proudly flutters at a near impossible height of 22,000 ft., maniacally protected and gently nurtured by a band of heroes, whose achievements dwarf most of what any Armed forces have been able to accomplish in a similar landscape.
The Siachen saga, began with a cartographical act of tomfoolery. As Mr. Gokhale illustrates with a mixture of humour and incredulity, a rafting expedition facilitated by Col Narinder ‘Bull’ Kumar, led to one of India’s most famous intrepid military mountaineers obtain possession of “maps that indicated ‘cartographic aggression’ by Pakistan on the Siachen glacier and the quiet alteration to the map of the Karakoram Range of mountains!” The cartographical manipulation smelt of stinking fish especially when the Col observed that the ceasefire line (commonly referred to as the Line of Control or LoC) that ended at map grid reference NJ 9842 now surprisingly had an extension up to the Karakoram Pass (north-east of NJ9842), instead of going northwards along the natural ridgeline. This clearly signaled an intent on the part of Pakistan to covertly occupy the heights of Siachen thereby rendering it an unrivaled advantage over its neighbour across the border.
Subsequent to a few ostensibly innocuous mountaineering missions bearing even more innocuous names such as Ibex I & II, Polar Bear I & II, the Indian Army finally launched Operation Meghdoot, thereby catching their Pakistani counterparts completely and conclusively off guard. As Mr. Gokhale illustrates, the loss of Siachen is a permanent rankle and an eyesore in the annals of Pakistani Military history, and multiple incursions, both suicidal and surreptitious have been attempted by the Pakistani Army at futile attempts of redemption.
The highlight of Mr. Gokhale’ s book is his interaction with the past, and present heroes of Siachen who have commanded posts at unimaginable heights and braved conditions unthinkable. This chronicling lends a degree pf perspective to the reader that is at once, profound, poignant and pertinent. For example, the litany of physical woes that a soldier is forced to endure at such rarefied heights range from the serious to the fatal. The ailments accosting a soldier include acute mountain sickness (AMS), High Altitude Pulmonary Oedema (HAPO), High Altitude Cerebral Oedema (HACO), snow blindness, sunburns, hypothermia, chill blains and frost bite. But as Mr. Gokhale explains, over the years the medical infrastructure, along with the logistical chains has been bolstered in an impeccable fashion. However, as one would fathom from a reading of the book, things were not always on the side of the soldier. Even worse than the vagaries of the weather were an all permeating red tapism.
The nauseating stench of bureaucracy is laid bare in its intransigent detail by Mr. Gokhale. Until the appointment of the irreverent, irascible and dynamic George Fernandes as the Minister of Defense, the troops in Siachen had to bank on the mercies of a stoic bunch of politicians and civil service personnel, who snugly ensconced within the confines of New Delhi, had no grasp whatsoever of the plight of their Army men in the Glacier. A request for the basic mode of transportation such as snow scooters was met with objections ranging from the sublime to the silly. “It first questioned the veracity of the breakdown rates, then the quality of training imparted to users, then the cost-effectiveness of the machines against porters and finally, the need to have them altogether. On one occasion, when a few snow scooters were sanctioned after some years of denial, the troops on the glacier asked that special prayers of thanks be offered to the regimental deity. The story may be apocryphal, but it shows how gallant soldiers are reduced to seeking divine intervention against insensitive official processes.”
Mr. Fernandes, popularly known as the “Siachen Minister” for his propensity to visit the Glacier (more than three dozen times), ended the bureaucratic rigmarole using an ingenious method. A method that sent a shiver running down the spine of the concerned irresponsible bureaucrat. Any one engaged or indulging in the act of procrastination would be ‘banished’ to the Glacier for a week!
Mr. Gokhale illustrates the beautiful symmetry and symbiosis between the Army and the Air Force that has allowed India to maintain its unmatched supremacy in the Siachen Glacier since Operation Meghdoot. Assisting the Army in ensuring that there is an unending stream of supplies, is a group of helicopters whose sorties are looked forward to by unbridled delight and glee by the soldiers. To paraphrase Mr. Gokhale,” The mainstay is the single engine Cheetah (successor of the Chetak helicopter), now manufactured at the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) facility in Bangalore. Originally produced in 1962 in France as Aerospatiale SA 319 Alouette III (known in India as Chetak), its upgraded version, the SA 315 B Lama began licensed production at HAL in 1971. This helicopter came to be known as Cheetah which is the mainstay of 114 HU since 1984! Although it has the ability to operate at the extreme flight envelope limit of 23,000 feet routinely, a single engine helicopter is fraught with risk in normal circumstances. In Ladakh and especially on the Siachen Glacier, the risks multiply manifold.” No wonder Leh is deemed to be the “Mecca” of helicopter flying.
Mr. Gokhale also reveals hair raising details of hand to hand combats engaged in by the Indian Army with buccaneering Pakistani invaders and capturing of various isolated posts. He also informs his readers about the convention employed by the Armed Forces in according names to the posts. The posts are named, “mostly after soldiers who ventured into the unknown and established Indian presence. So you have several posts—Ajay, Bhim-Sonam, Amar, to cite just a few—named after daring warriors) into a formidable locality.”
But many of the deeds of gallantry performed astonishingly in such a rarefied atmosphere is more often than not confined and consigned to the folklore of the Armed Forces. This is a travesty of the highest order and one that ought to be remedied post haste. It is here that the stellar efforts of the likes of Mr. Gokale will greatly aid and abet in disseminating these acts of unparalleled bravery into the mainstream. These are acts because of which India finds herself, safe, secure and sound. A classic example is the Param Vir Chakra (the nation’s epochal recognition in bravery) bestowed upon Naib Subedar Bana Singh courtesy a death defying operation termed Operation Rajib in honour of a fallen comrade. “Naib Subedar Bana Singh was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, the highest wartime gallantry medal in India, for conspicuous bravery and leadership under most adverse conditions. “Operation Rajiv” overall, resulted in the award of one MVC (for Subedar Sansar Singh), seven Vir Chakras and one Sena Medal, besides the PVC. The CO and the Commander were awarded UYSMs. 8 JAK LI and 102 Infantry Brigade had reason to be proud; very proud indeed, for their stupendous skill at arms in the toughest high altitude terrain the world has ever known so far.”
“The Siachen Saga” contains many such riveting, reinvigorating and reverberating tales of unselfish courage, uninhibited sacrifice and unparalleled demonstration of responding to calls way beyond one’s duty. This is what makes the Indian Army one of the most vaunted, revered, respected and feared in the world. More than anything else this is what makes a nation of a billion clock an incalculable debt of gratitude towards its brave hearts. A debt that can never ever be repaid.
But for the time being, the least we can do is celebrate with gay abandon the feats of these gladiators of the mountains, acknowledge their achievements and shed a tear of unbridled euphoria. If there is anything whiter than the snow even it is the conscience of these soldiers and if there is anything purer than the air at such dizzying heights, it is the unsullied soul of the man clad in high altitude gear, holding a weapon close to his chest and trying to fight off not just sleep but a temperature that is MINUS 60 DEGREES! Just so that we can sleep undisturbed.
“The Siachen Saga” is Mr. Gokhale’ s monumental and most welcome tribute to the Indian Armed Forces and must be made mandatory reading at all schools and Universities.
JAI HIND!!!
June 13, 2015
This book talks about NJ 9842, or the area beyond the demarcated Line of Control between India and Pakistan in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It talks of how the agreement between the two nations talks of the border beyond the point and how this has been warped by Pakistani movement and actions, and how it is an imperative for India despite the immense monetary and human costs to maintain a significant presence of what is termed as the world's highest battlefield, Siachen, to keep a strategic control of the area and hence defend itself. Thus saving itself from being encircled by China and what is today Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.
Reading about Siachen was fascinating itself, understanding how the area came into play and how India came to occupy such a frozen wasteland, and the reasons for such an effort was a fascinating read. The addition of personal stories, all meticulously gotten by the author by way of research and personal interviews from the actors involved only raised the profile of the book further. The story flows quite well, and the immense trove of photographs add to the books immensely, and offer that wonderful gaze into the harsh realities of Siachen that we only hear of but have never been witness to. The anecdotes and the explanations are simple and draw the reader further in.
There is only one peeve I have with this book, the lack of maps showing the areas, the hills, peaks, and villages etc being referred to. The lack of a clear clarity why the Saltoro Ridge is so important, yes it will allow a Pak-China encirclement, but maybe a map of the consequential results would've been better.
At the end of this book, you come out with a lot of respect for the men who guard our borders. It is as Winston Churchill said, never before have so many owed so much to so few.
To the Indian Jawan/Soldier, we salute you.
Jai Hind !
Reading about Siachen was fascinating itself, understanding how the area came into play and how India came to occupy such a frozen wasteland, and the reasons for such an effort was a fascinating read. The addition of personal stories, all meticulously gotten by the author by way of research and personal interviews from the actors involved only raised the profile of the book further. The story flows quite well, and the immense trove of photographs add to the books immensely, and offer that wonderful gaze into the harsh realities of Siachen that we only hear of but have never been witness to. The anecdotes and the explanations are simple and draw the reader further in.
There is only one peeve I have with this book, the lack of maps showing the areas, the hills, peaks, and villages etc being referred to. The lack of a clear clarity why the Saltoro Ridge is so important, yes it will allow a Pak-China encirclement, but maybe a map of the consequential results would've been better.
At the end of this book, you come out with a lot of respect for the men who guard our borders. It is as Winston Churchill said, never before have so many owed so much to so few.
To the Indian Jawan/Soldier, we salute you.
Jai Hind !
September 20, 2015
The terrain out here is so treacherous that only best of the friends and worst of the enemies can come and visit.
This was what I had read about Siachen and the author has masterfully reaffirmed the saying by portraying the life over there from the perspectives of soldiers, porters, helicopter pilots and medical experts and not to forget the military strategists. After reading the book one gets to understand the real challenges in maintaining combat readiness in the highest battle field on Earth. The loss of life and limbs is more attributed to elements of nature than to enemy action.
The most gripping chapter in the book is on Operation Rajeev. The endeavor was a sure shot failure but in the fourth and final attempt the enemy was evicted from a post that commanded domination over entire Indian army activities. Exploits of Bana Singh are always very gripping no matter how many times one hears about them. The brilliant part is that author credits the bravery and courage shown by Pakistanis as well during this operation as well as while maintaining their presence.
Should we vacate it? An officer in the book said that the psychological factor achieved by being the only occupants at Saltotoro ridge reaps dividends that are beyond any strategic advantage. While peace in our time may not be achieved soon, the presence of Indian army in siachen heights shall continue.
Somebody jokingly said "Hey look we are more than happy to come down, but don't ask us to go back and retake thos heights when Pakistanis have taken over them"
This was what I had read about Siachen and the author has masterfully reaffirmed the saying by portraying the life over there from the perspectives of soldiers, porters, helicopter pilots and medical experts and not to forget the military strategists. After reading the book one gets to understand the real challenges in maintaining combat readiness in the highest battle field on Earth. The loss of life and limbs is more attributed to elements of nature than to enemy action.
The most gripping chapter in the book is on Operation Rajeev. The endeavor was a sure shot failure but in the fourth and final attempt the enemy was evicted from a post that commanded domination over entire Indian army activities. Exploits of Bana Singh are always very gripping no matter how many times one hears about them. The brilliant part is that author credits the bravery and courage shown by Pakistanis as well during this operation as well as while maintaining their presence.
Should we vacate it? An officer in the book said that the psychological factor achieved by being the only occupants at Saltotoro ridge reaps dividends that are beyond any strategic advantage. While peace in our time may not be achieved soon, the presence of Indian army in siachen heights shall continue.
Somebody jokingly said "Hey look we are more than happy to come down, but don't ask us to go back and retake thos heights when Pakistanis have taken over them"
March 15, 2021
Wonderful book that gives a sneak preview on what the soldiers of the Indian Army endure in Siachen and why Siachen is such a critical cog in the wheel in defending Leh, Ladakh and defeating the evil designs of Pakistan and China. Thoroughly researched, with first hand accounts by the daredevil men who man the highest battlefield in the world. The photographs and maps help get a very visual idea of Siachen, and brings the battlefield home to the reader.
Jai Hind, Jai Hind Ki Sena
Jai Hind, Jai Hind Ki Sena
November 17, 2017
This book was on my wishlist since it was released but for one reason or another I never bought it. Finally some good sense prevailed, I ordered it through Amazon and read it quickly.
As I had expected it is an awesome I spring details with quite a detailed account about the history of the Siachen conflict, how and why Operation Meghdoot started, real life accounts of soldiers, air warriors and doctors who have served at this Highest Battlefield on Earth, lots of beautiful photographs and some interviews as well. I was filled with pride on reading what odds our Armed Forces have endured to maintain our superiority and thwarting every attempt of Pakistan to wrest any claim. Lots and lots of lives have been lost and many a millions have been spent to ensure this. You would be amazed at the mind boggling valour and at times unbelievable strength of our men serving in Siachen. I know atleast one Army Officer who has served there and look forward to discussing more about his tenure whenever I meet him the next time.
I am no expert to suggest how accurately Nitin Gokhale has written this but I suggest everyone to read this book and understand more about this operation. It is a must read!
P. S. I was thoroughly disappointed to find some glaring factual and grammatical errors on the book. Shockingly 2 of them on the back page which is simply unacceptable.
As I had expected it is an awesome I spring details with quite a detailed account about the history of the Siachen conflict, how and why Operation Meghdoot started, real life accounts of soldiers, air warriors and doctors who have served at this Highest Battlefield on Earth, lots of beautiful photographs and some interviews as well. I was filled with pride on reading what odds our Armed Forces have endured to maintain our superiority and thwarting every attempt of Pakistan to wrest any claim. Lots and lots of lives have been lost and many a millions have been spent to ensure this. You would be amazed at the mind boggling valour and at times unbelievable strength of our men serving in Siachen. I know atleast one Army Officer who has served there and look forward to discussing more about his tenure whenever I meet him the next time.
I am no expert to suggest how accurately Nitin Gokhale has written this but I suggest everyone to read this book and understand more about this operation. It is a must read!
P. S. I was thoroughly disappointed to find some glaring factual and grammatical errors on the book. Shockingly 2 of them on the back page which is simply unacceptable.
April 8, 2018
The Siachen Glacier is located at the northeast of the point NJ 9842, where the line of control between India and Pakistan ends. It has been a point of dispute between these two neighbouring countries for over 3 decades for its strategic location. This book tells the story of Operation Meghdoot which India launched in 1984 to gain control over Siachen. And it contains several other little little stories of brave soldiers, who have survived the tough weather, battled at over 15,000 ft for their motherland. It is, in fact, the highest battlefield in the world. The book could have been better structured but it contains several interesting tidbits & interviews with former Officers, which the author has painstakingly put together. The courageous stories are quite inspiring and motivating. This book actually made me go to the internet and lap up more information about the Siachen conflict & I found myself jumping from article to article completely engrossed in this tale. If you are fascinated by military exploits, this is a bloody good read. A bunch of colourful mesmerizing pictures sprinkled generously througout the book only add to the experience.
February 14, 2016
"The inhospitable terrain of Siachen brings the best out of Indian military. All the soldier asks for is that the nation keeps faith in him. And give him the respect and dignity he deserves"
Fantastic book. Very good account on how Indian Armed forces have beaten Pak on time to held strategic positions in Siachen(1984) and there after continuously deploying troops for 30+ years in world's highest battlefield. Nitin has covered the great valor of the men who were in the action right from Operation Meghdoot till the ceasefire.
Siachen acts as a buffer for Leh-Kashmir region against enemy aggression. Some analysts say, Kargil happened for Siachen. As quoted in the book "Summiting Sia Kangri in the Siachen glacier complex when the weather is clear, one can see Tibet, Xinjiang in China, Afghanistan and the central Asian Republics". Salute to the men who are guarding such a strategically important region.
Fantastic book. Very good account on how Indian Armed forces have beaten Pak on time to held strategic positions in Siachen(1984) and there after continuously deploying troops for 30+ years in world's highest battlefield. Nitin has covered the great valor of the men who were in the action right from Operation Meghdoot till the ceasefire.
Siachen acts as a buffer for Leh-Kashmir region against enemy aggression. Some analysts say, Kargil happened for Siachen. As quoted in the book "Summiting Sia Kangri in the Siachen glacier complex when the weather is clear, one can see Tibet, Xinjiang in China, Afghanistan and the central Asian Republics". Salute to the men who are guarding such a strategically important region.
October 15, 2016
This is an exceptional piece by Nitin Gokhale giving a vivid experience of the challenges of Siachen Glacier by our bravest of brave Indian Soldiers. The books excels in giving a brief background of the Siachen conflict between India and Pakistan and it's sttrategic importance. It presents the personal accounts and experiences of the veteran soldiers who have served at the glacier and the immense display of grit, courage and brotherhood by the brother in arms.
Some of the anecdotes shared by the officers and men are extremely emotional and set a goalpost of inspiration and motivation for the countrymen who are sitting safe in the hinterland of India.
This book is especially recommended for civilians who have hardly any idea of the hardships of the Siachen glacier.
Some of the anecdotes shared by the officers and men are extremely emotional and set a goalpost of inspiration and motivation for the countrymen who are sitting safe in the hinterland of India.
This book is especially recommended for civilians who have hardly any idea of the hardships of the Siachen glacier.
March 8, 2018
The hardships of the soldiers at the highest battlefield of the world - well described. Despite of all the mishaps and losses they suffer, they stand there to defend the motherland and save the citizens. The author has truly brought the untold stories enveloped in this small book with lots of experiences. It is an irony how the civilians take things for granted which the soldiers at the border can not even think about. The peace at the borders is the result of a number of lives and their innumerable sacrifices. A heartbreaking story bringing out the reality of political and strategical decisions on paper - a must read. Respect for the Soldiers!!!
April 14, 2019
A first hand account of the importance of Siachen in the context of India military strategy. The book covers the saga of Siachen from the very beginning where a set of maps from german mountaineers ringed the first alarm which later got converted into full scale operation Meghdoot. The book gives firsthand account of the hardships faced by the soldiers deployed in Siachen.
A must read for anyone wanting to know more about the Siachen.
A must read for anyone wanting to know more about the Siachen.
February 7, 2016
Its a war history explaining the genesis of Siachen issue, its history and the extreme conditions our soldiers endure. The book renews your respect for the army. The important part of the book is that its not a military war manual but a personal history of all the unknown soldiers who have served at the highest battleground of the world.
August 18, 2019
Gripping and Thrilling
Gripping and Thrilling account of the plights faced by indian soldiers on one of the most inhospitable regions of the planet. All this presented with enough historical background. The best chapter was the one on medical personnel and how they stand shoulder to shoulder with their fellow countrymen.
Gripping and Thrilling account of the plights faced by indian soldiers on one of the most inhospitable regions of the planet. All this presented with enough historical background. The best chapter was the one on medical personnel and how they stand shoulder to shoulder with their fellow countrymen.
July 23, 2015
The brief introduction of Siachen with some accounts of Army persons who were posted there feels the void & gives us the pride feeling with the sadness for the lives lost for holding the battleground.
November 19, 2015
Amazing book. Read this and you will respect the India soldier and appreciate the sacrifices they make for their country. This book organises the experiences and narrations from various soldiers who have served in Siachin.
So engrossing, that I finished it in one day.
So engrossing, that I finished it in one day.
April 9, 2017
a very good book to understand how our soldiers fight in glacial heights,honour,service
, sacrifice honesty to one's paltan,deals at length about the history leading to its capture,its importance supported well by some jaw dropping images of the glacier
, sacrifice honesty to one's paltan,deals at length about the history leading to its capture,its importance supported well by some jaw dropping images of the glacier
September 8, 2017
Brilliant book. The insights into the importance of the glacier are commonly underrated (especially in the civilian community). The human angle of all the brave hearts and their sacrifices left me teary eyed and awestruck.
July 22, 2015
Must read to know the human aspect of staying put in Siachen and the indomitable spirit of our Indian soldiers!!
November 23, 2017
An interesting story on how the Indians occupied or preempted the Pakistanis from occupying Siachen glacier. Shows the courage and great sacrifice of the Indian army.
January 20, 2019
Well written. Gives a glimpse into a world that civilians like me can understand and appreciate. Kudos to the author.
May 17, 2019
Awesome
An Excellent Read
Gives you the feel of what the freedom costs. Unparalleled grit of Indian soldiers exceptional flying by pilots
An Excellent Read
Gives you the feel of what the freedom costs. Unparalleled grit of Indian soldiers exceptional flying by pilots
April 5, 2021
Such awesome lives of excitement, content, sacrifice, ingenuity, brotherhood and camaraderie these children of Siachen have led.
Maybe when all this ends, maybe when Earth is but a speck and humanity has long ceased to exist and the almighty sits down for a drink, I think he will invite the men and women who died on Siachen, pass them a cold one and tell them "You did alright kid". What else then explains the sheer madness that makes a person brave the ruthless weather for a flag and the safety of people he or she doesn't even know of? Divinity's need to push humanity me thinks.
Maybe when all this ends, maybe when Earth is but a speck and humanity has long ceased to exist and the almighty sits down for a drink, I think he will invite the men and women who died on Siachen, pass them a cold one and tell them "You did alright kid". What else then explains the sheer madness that makes a person brave the ruthless weather for a flag and the safety of people he or she doesn't even know of? Divinity's need to push humanity me thinks.
March 25, 2024
Intresting factual accounts by a renowned journalist without much jingoism. (Though the writing is like in a brochure every now and then.) There are no color photographs or detailed maps in this edition.
April 10, 2022
A vivid account of the highest battle field of the world. Brings about the genesis of conflict, consolidation of Indian positions and the present status in Siachen. The humane aspects covered in the book are worth reading repeatedly. Account of the Courage and Fortitude of Siachen Warriors.
December 25, 2014
This book covers the operational history of the Indian Army on Saltoro Ridge - Siachen Glacier. In 1975, maps published by a US commercial firm showed the LOC extending from the formally demarcated NJ 9842 point, running straight northwest to Karakoram Pass making the pass a tripoint between Pakistan China & India and bringing the entire Siachen area under Pakistan. Per India, the tripoint should lie north of Indira Col, the northernmost point on Saltoro ridge line bringing the Siachen glacier and the area upto Karokaram pass under India.
The book describes how Pakistan's "cartographic aggression" was accidentally discovered by India and then the mad race between India & Pakistan to occupy those the crazy heights (6000m+). The book attempts to cover 30 years of operation deployment of the Indian Army but there is only so much you can cover in about 250 pages.
The book fails to provide a narrative. It is best to read this book as a collection of stories about Siachen. The author freely quotes paragraphs from other books about Siachen as well as whole articles from magazines and newspapers - but the subject matter is so interesting that it all comes together. What will grab your attention is the story of individual soldiers and their bravery. This book is worth reading just for those stories.
The book describes how Pakistan's "cartographic aggression" was accidentally discovered by India and then the mad race between India & Pakistan to occupy those the crazy heights (6000m+). The book attempts to cover 30 years of operation deployment of the Indian Army but there is only so much you can cover in about 250 pages.
The book fails to provide a narrative. It is best to read this book as a collection of stories about Siachen. The author freely quotes paragraphs from other books about Siachen as well as whole articles from magazines and newspapers - but the subject matter is so interesting that it all comes together. What will grab your attention is the story of individual soldiers and their bravery. This book is worth reading just for those stories.
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