When a soldier calls home from the world’s highest battlefield, it’s not just signal strength—it’s emotional strength.
India’s remote military posts such as Galwan, Demchok, Chumar, Batalik, Dras, and the Siachen Glacier are not just strategically important—they are symbols of national pride and sacrifice. Located in high-altitude, harsh terrain with extreme weather, these forward areas have traditionally struggled with one major challenge: reliable mobile connectivity. However, over the past few years, the Government of India, in collaboration with telecom operators and the Armed Forces, has taken steady steps to improve communication infrastructure at these crucial locations.
In areas like Galwan, Demchok, and Chumar, which are along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh, mobile networks are limited but improving. After the 2020 Galwan clash, the urgency to connect these border villages and posts increased significantly. As a result, BSNL and private operators like Reliance Jio and Airtel were roped in to set up 4G towers in nearby civilian areas and defense zones. In some forward locations, satellite-based communication still remains the only viable option due to geographical limitations and security concerns.
In Batalik and Dras, which are near the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu & Kashmir and played a key role during the Kargil War, connectivity has seen gradual upgrades. Towns nearby have basic 4G coverage and fiber-based networks are being extended to enhance internet availability. BSNL’s collaboration with the Army and local administration has ensured that both military personnel and nearby villagers benefit from better coverage, especially during emergencies and extreme winters.
Siachen Glacier, the highest battlefield in the world at over 18,000 feet, poses the most significant challenge. Here, due to sub-zero temperatures, shifting ice, and constant snowstorms, traditional telecom infrastructure cannot survive. Communication with soldiers is primarily maintained through military satellite systems, wireless radio, and specially-designed satellite phones. However, trials for providing limited high-frequency radio internet and VSAT-based services have shown promise in select army posts and base camps. In 2021, the government also cleared funding for high-speed internet via satellite links under the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF).
While complete mobile coverage is still a work in progress, technology is inching closer to the Himalayas. The Ministry of Defence, Department of Telecommunications (DoT), and public sector companies like BSNL are constantly evaluating how to bring secure, low-latency, high-reliability communication to these soldiers in extreme zones. With upcoming satellite constellations like BharatNet and LEO-based Starlink-like services, the future holds promise of faster and safer communication even in the world’s most remote and difficult terrains.
These efforts are not just about staying connected—they are about enabling faster command operations, ensuring soldier safety, and bringing a sense of normalcy to jawans posted far from home. In doing so, India is not just fortifying its borders but also strengthening the morale of those who defend it.
