BJP MP Commends Launch of 4G and 5G Networks in Border Regions Including Galwan and Siachen

Synopsis
BJP Rajya Sabha member Gulam Ali Khatana praised the deployment of mobile networks in remote border areas, such as Galwan and Siachen, as a significant advancement in infrastructure aimed at improving soldier welfare.
Key Takeaways
- BJP MP Gulam Ali Khatana praises mobile network rollout.
- 4G and 5G connectivity established in high-altitude areas.
- Improved communication for soldiers stationed in challenging terrains.
- 5G tower installed on the Siachen Glacier.
- Collaboration with Telecom Service Providers enhances connectivity.
New Delhi, April 20 (NationPress) BJP Rajya Sabha member Gulam Ali Khatana expressed appreciation on Sunday for the deployment of mobile networks in isolated and elevated border regions, notably Galwan and the Siachen Glacier. He termed this development a pivotal move towards enhancing infrastructure and promoting the well-being of soldiers.
Indian Army personnel positioned in some of the planet's most challenging terrains -- such as Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO), Galwan, Demchok, Chumar, Batalik, Dras, and Siachen -- now benefit from dependable 4G and 5G mobile connectivity, allowing them to maintain contact with their families despite the geographic obstacles.
A 5G mobile tower has been established on the Siachen Glacier -- recognized as the highest battlefield globally -- representing a substantial leap in India's defense communication capabilities.
Speaking with IANS, Khatana commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision and leadership in transforming the telecom industry.
"Prioritizing infrastructure and communication, extricating the sector from the 2G-3G scandal, and introducing 5G at the most affordable rates globally while fortifying BSNL to compete with private entities -- this is PM Modi's mission," he stated.
Army units stationed in regions such as Galwan, Demchok, Chumar, Batalik, Dras, and the Siachen Glacier are now connected through 4G and 5G networks, facilitating phone and video communications with their families.
Mobile services in Galwan had been halted following the violent encounters with Chinese soldiers in 2020. With the restoration and enhancement to 4G and 5G, personnel deployed there will now experience uninterrupted connectivity.
This connectivity initiative was carried out under a Whole-of-Government approach, with the Indian Army utilizing its optical fibre cable (OFC) infrastructure in partnership with Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) and the Union Territory Administration of Ladakh.
The Fire and Fury Corps led the coordination efforts, facilitating mobile tower installations on Army infrastructure. Four major installations have been finalized in the Ladakh and Kargil districts.
The program aims to enhance the quality of life for troops stationed in extreme conditions, particularly in winter cut-off posts situated above 18,000 feet, where communication has consistently posed a challenge.