The visit is expected to pave the way for deeper cooperation in defence, capacity building, and cultural exchanges
Nepal Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel has concluded a productive four-day official visit to India, marking a significant step in strengthening the longstanding defence and cultural ties between the two nations. The visit, which spanned from December 11 to 14, 2024, resulted in key developments in defence cooperation, capacity building, and cultural engagement, reinforcing the deep-rooted relationship between the Nepali and Indian armies.

One of the highlights of the visit was the special Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhawan, where General Sigdel was conferred with the Honorary Rank of General of the Indian Army by Indian President Draupadi Murmu. This unique tradition, which dates back over 70 years, symbolizes the mutual respect and strong military cooperation between the two countries.

During the ceremony, General Sigdel received a ceremonial rank plate reflecting his new honorary title, underscoring the symbolic and operational bond shared by the two armies.

As part of his visit, General Sigdel engaged in high-level discussions with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. These meetings focused on strengthening strategic cooperation and exploring opportunities for enhanced collaboration.

One key agenda was improving the scope of the joint "Surya Kiran" military exercise to bolster operational readiness and United Nations peacekeeping capabilities. Discussions also revolved around increasing cooperation in medical services, including organ transplantation, mental health support for military personnel, and access to life-saving drugs.

Defence and Industrial Cooperation
India demonstrated its commitment to Nepal’s military capacity-building efforts by handing over a target practice drone and advanced medical equipment for a Nepali Army field hospital.

General Sigdel also toured Tata Aerospace & Defence Ltd (TASL) and Bharat Forge in Pune, showcasing Nepal's interest in India's growing defence manufacturing capabilities. 

As the Reviewing Officer at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) Passing Out Parade in Dehradun, General Sigdel oversaw the commissioning of two Nepali cadets, Officer Cadet Binod Bhatta and Officer Cadet Prabin Pandey, into the Nepali Army. Plans were also announced for reciprocal cultural exchanges involving young officers and guest lectures by senior officials at military training institutions.

The visit also underscored the shared cultural heritage between India and Nepal. General Sigdel visited the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, highlighting the spiritual and historical bonds that tie the two nations. At the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, he planted a sapling, symbolizing the enduring and growing relationship between the two armies.

General Sigdel's visit is seen as a testament to the strong defence and cultural ties between Nepal and India. By conferring the Honorary Generalship and engaging in strategic discussions, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to fostering peace, stability, and development in the region.

The Reciprocal Lunch hosted by General Sigdel at the Nepal Embassy in New Delhi provided an informal platform for further dialogue, reinforcing bilateral relations and exploring opportunities for collaboration.

The outcomes of the visit are expected to pave the way for deeper cooperation in defence, capacity building, and cultural exchanges. Both nations are committed to enhancing their partnership, leveraging their shared history and strategic interests to address emerging challenges in the region.