Captain Geetika Koul: Siachen Pioneer Medical Officer

Captain Geetika Koul, serving with the Snow Leopard Brigade, has made history as the first woman medical officer in the Indian Army to be deployed at the challenging Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield.

This landmark achievement follows Captain Koul’s successful completion of demanding induction training at the esteemed Siachen Battle School. The training, focusing on physical and mental endurance, encompasses vital aspects such as high-altitude acclimatization, survival techniques, and specialized medical procedures necessary for operations in the harsh Siachen conditions.

The announcement was made by the Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army through a social media post, hailing accomplishment of Captain Geetika Koul.

In a related development in October, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) established a new base transceiver station (BTS) in the Siachen Glacier. This initiative aims to extend mobile communication services for soldiers stationed at altitudes exceeding 15,500 feet.

“Siachen Warriors in collaboration with BSNL established the first-ever BSNL BTS at forward posts of the highest battlefield on 6 October to extend mobile communication for the soldiers deployed at more than 15,500 feet,” announced the Fire and Fury Corps on social media.

This communication infrastructure milestone allows troops stationed at high-altitude posts to connect with their families while carrying out duties in the challenging and frigid conditions of the world’s highest battlefield.

Captain Geetika Koul’s deployment and the establishment of improved communication infrastructure underscore the continuous efforts to enhance operational capabilities and well-being in these extreme environments.

_{Repurposed article originally published in the Hindusthan Times}