I have a special respect for soldiers, says President Kovind after visiting Siachen base camp

President Ram Nath Kovind visited Siachen base camp in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday. He is the second president to visit the camp, after former President APJ Abdul Kalam, who visited in 2004.

Siachen is considered as the highest battlefield in the world.

Speaking to media, Kovind said,''There was a special reason behind my excitement to meet you. I wanted to personally convey you the message that there is special respect in heart of all Indians for the soldiers and officers guarding the borders.''

In 2004 Kalam became the first Indian President to visit the Siachen glacier, according to NDTV.

Meanwhile, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Bipin Rawat visited Kargil sector in Ladakh region and reviewed security situation on Wednesday.