Which is the longest glacier in India?
a) Gangotri Glacier
b) Yamunotri Glacier
c) Siachen Glacier
d) Pindari Glacier
Answer: c) Siachen Glacier
Explanation
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Siachen Glacier: Spanning approximately 76 kilometers (47 miles) in length, the Siachen Glacier is the longest glacier in India and the second-longest non-polar glacier in the world (after Fedchenko Glacier in Tajikistan).
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Location: Located in the Eastern Karakoram Range in the Himalayas, just northeast of Point NJ9842 in Ladakh.
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Geographical & Strategic Importance:
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It serves as the primary source of the Nubra River, which feeds into the Shyok River (a major tributary of the Indus River system).
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Often referred to as the world’s highest battlefield, it sits at altitudes ranging from 3,500 to over 5,700 meters above sea level and has been militarily controlled by India since Operation Meghdoot in 1984.
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Overview of Other Options
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a) Gangotri Glacier: Located in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand (~30 km long); it is the origin of the Bhagirathi River (headstream of the Ganges) and is the largest glacier in Uttarakhand, but significantly shorter than Siachen.
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b) Yamunotri Glacier: Located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand (~5 km long); the primary source of the Yamuna River.
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d) Pindari Glacier: A prominent valley glacier located in the Kumaon Himalayas of Uttarakhand (~3.2 km long); the source of the Pindar River.
