The prime minister made an aerial survey of the forward areas where the oxygen level is substantially low as a result of which breathing is very difficult.

The prime minister underwent a medical examination before going to Siachen.

The soldiers have to undergo acclimatisation procedures before being posted to Siachen, as the mercury does not go beyond five degrees Celsius even in peak summer.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh (center) shares the dais with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammed Sayeed (right) and Governor Lt Gen (retd) S K Sinha at a public meeting during which he announced the setting up of a hydro-electric power project in Leh.

Photographs: PRAKASH SINGH/AFP/Getty Images

Also See: Return of the reformer