41 soldiers killed in Siachen since 2013: Govt

Siachen records more deaths of troops 4 months than last 3 years

Forty-one soldiers have lost their lives in Siachen Glacier since 2013, the government said Friday.

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar in a written reply in Lok Sabha said 10 soldiers were killed in 2013, eight and nine in 2014 and 2015, respectively.

Till March 31, 14 soldiers have died this year, Parrikar said.

Troops being posted in high altitude areas are trained in 'Basic and Advance' skills in mountains and snow-bound areas, he said, adding medical equipment exist in all posts to cater for emergencies.

Best quality of winter clothing and equipment is procured to prevent weather-related casualties. Modern means of conveyance like snow scooters are utilised to ensure timely reaction to any eventuality and reduce fatigue. A number of specialised equipment have also been deployed in avalanche- prone areas, he said.