Q.Siachen Glacier is situated to the
a) East of Aksai Chin
b) East of Leh
c) North of Gilgit
d) North of Nubra Valley
Correct Answer : d) North of Nubra Valley
Question from UPSC Prelims 2020 GS Paper
Explanation:
Location of Siachen Glacier
The Siachen Glacier, situated in the eastern Karakoram range in the Himalayas, is located to the north of the Nubra Valley. This makes option (d) “North of Nubra Valley” the correct answer. Here’s a detailed explanation:
a) East of Aksai Chin
This option is incorrect because Aksai Chin is located to the east of Ladakh, and the Siachen Glacier is not directly east of Aksai Chin.
b) East of Leh
This option is not accurate because Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is situated to the south of the Siachen Glacier.
c) North of Gilgit
Gilgit is part of the Gilgit-Baltistan region, which is administered by Pakistan. The Siachen Glacier is to the east of Gilgit, not directly north.
d) North of Nubra Valley
This is the correct answer. The Nubra Valley is located to the north of Leh and is known for its scenic beauty, including sand dunes and monasteries. The Siachen Glacier lies to the north of the Nubra Valley, making this the most accurate description of its location.
The Siachen Glacier is strategically significant and has been a point of military contention between India and Pakistan. It is known as the highest battlefield in the world, with both countries maintaining a military presence in the region despite the harsh climatic conditions.