Indian Army Brings Mobile Connectivity: Ladakh's remote troops access 4G and 5G for first time

In a remarkable step towards connecting the most isolated parts of the country, the Indian Army has introduced mobile connectivity to some of the most remote and high-altitude areas of Ladakh, including Eastern and Western Ladakh, and even the challenging Siachen Glacier.

A boost for troops and morale

For the first time, soldiers stationed in some of the world’s toughest terrains—like DBO, Galwan, Demchok, Chumar, Batalik, Dras, and the Siachen Glacier—now have access to 4G and 5G networks. This has been a game-changer for those serving at isolated posts, often cut off in the harsh winter months at altitudes over 18,000 feet. The ability to stay in touch with their families and loved ones has been a huge morale booster for these soldiers.

What makes this achievement even more impressive is the collaborative effort between the Indian Army, Telecom Service Providers (TSPs), and the UT Administration of Ladakh. Thanks to the robust optical fibre cable network that the Army has set up, mobile towers have been installed on Army infrastructure, including key towers in Ladakh and Kargil districts. The Fire and Fury Corps played a crucial role in making this all happen.

Transforming socio-economic landscape of border villages

Yet the benefits don't end with troop welfare alone. The initiative is now uplifting the faraway border villages of the region, connecting them to the national digital net for various advantages such as:

• Availability of services through the digital divide.
• Strengthen local economies
• Encourage tourism at border
• Improve emergency services and medical care
• Eliminate barriers to education
• Support local trade
• Cultural heritage preservation
• Cross-border migration of border villages

A particularly proud moment came with the installation of a 5G tower on the Siachen Glacier, the highest battlefield in the world, showcasing India’s technological strength.

The people of these remote areas have greeted this initiative with heartfelt appreciation. What was before called a luxurious service—mobile connectivity—has now become a lifeline to everybody, opening up opportunities, creating people as one, and providing dignity to all.

This endeavor of the Indian Army is mainly for the convenience of the troops. It also bears witness to the way India has embedded itself in its commitment to national development and integration, resonating with the dreams of a Viksit Bharat.