General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Nepali Army, concluded his official visit to India from December 11 to 14, 2024. The visit marked a significant step in enhancing the long-standing relationship between the Indian and Nepali armies, achieving key milestones in defence cooperation, strategic dialogue, and cultural exchange.
Key Highlights and Outcomes of the Visit
- High-Level Meetings
General Sigdel engaged in fruitful discussions with prominent Indian leaders, including:- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
- National Security Advisor Ajit Doval
- Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan
- Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh
- Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri
These interactions focused on expanding bilateral defence collaboration and aligning strategic interests between the two nations.
- Honorary Generalship
In a symbolic gesture of friendship and mutual respect, General Sigdel was conferred with the Honorary Generalship of the Indian Army, continuing a cherished tradition between the two countries. - Reviewing Officer at IMA Dehradun
General Sigdel served as the Reviewing Officer at the Passing Out Parade at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. The event also saw the commissioning of two Nepali cadets, Binod Bhatta and Prabin Pandey, further strengthening the bond between the two armies. - Capacity Building Agreements
Several agreements were reached to enhance the operational and technological capabilities of the Nepali Army. These include:- Handing over a target practice drone and medical equipment for field hospitals by General Upendra Dwivedi, Indian COAS.
- Plans to expand the scope of the joint military exercise Surya Kiran, which has been a cornerstone of Indo-Nepal military cooperation.
- Visits to Indian Defence Industries
General Sigdel visited Tata Aerospace & Defence Ltd (TASL) and Bharat Forge in Pune to explore opportunities for collaboration in defence technology and manufacturing. - Medical Cooperation
Discussions included assistance in organ transplants, life-saving drug supplies, telemedicine initiatives, and addressing mental health challenges among personnel. - Cultural and Educational Exchanges
- Young officers and cadets from both countries will participate in cultural exchange programs.
- Senior officers from both armies will deliver guest lectures at each other’s military institutions.
- Enhanced Collaborations
- Reciprocal participation of the Nepali Army Band in India’s Army Day parade.
- Visits by high-ranking officers and Principal Staff Officers to military establishments in both countries.
- Cultural Visit to Ayodhya
General Sigdel visited the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, highlighting the cultural and spiritual connections that underpin the strong ties between India and Nepal.
A Shared Commitment to Strengthen Bonds
General Sigdel’s visit was hailed as a resounding success, further cementing the historic friendship and cooperation between the Indian and Nepali armies. The discussions and agreements reached during this visit underscore a mutual commitment to advancing strategic, operational, and cultural ties in the years ahead.
