ProMASS News Bureau: Feb 26, 2016:
Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar has said India will not vacate the Siachen glaciers as Pakistan cannot be trusted. Replying to supplementaries during Question Hour in the Lok Sabha today, Mr Parrikar said if India vacates the position, the enemy can occupy it and they would have the strategic advantage. He said the country knows the experience of 1984 Siachen conflict. The statement comes few weeks after ten soldiers were buried alive under snow after their camp in the northern part of the glacier was hit by a major avalanche.
Mr Parrikar said regular medical support is given to those serving in the Siachen which is six times more than the normal medical care. 19 categories of clothing are provided to the soldiers in addition to various other assistance like snow scooters.Replying to another question, the Minister said the 7th Pay Commission has recommended substantial increase in benefits to those serving in hostile terrain and the Ministry will ensure that defence personnel working in the areas are compensated properly.
