Reinforcing defence and cultural ties: Indian Army Chief's Nepal visit blends strategic vision with tradition
| 2024-11-26
Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi calls on Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in Kathmandu on November 22, 2024.
General Dwivedi’s visit to Nepal exemplifies shared commitment of Indian and Nepali Armies to peace, security, and partnership
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army, has returned to India after a successful five-day official visit to Nepal. The visit has not only deepened defence cooperation between the two nations but also reinforced the historical, cultural, and strategic ties that have bound the Indian and Nepali Armies for decades.
During his visit from November 20-24, 2024, General Dwivedi engaged with Nepal’s top political and military leadership. He called on President Ram Chandra Paudel, Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli, and Defence Minister Manbir Rai and held productive discussions.
On the military front, the Indian COAS met with his Nepali counterpart, General Ashok Raj Sigdel, and senior Nepali Army officers. Discussions focused on areas of mutual interest, including joint exercises, training programs, and capability development.
Key Moments of the Visit
Tribute to Nepal’s Bravehearts: In a solemn ceremony, General Dwivedi laid a wreath at the Bir Smarak in Tundikhel, honouring Nepal’s fallen soldiers. He also received a Guard of Honour at the Nepali Army Headquarters.
Conferment of Honorary Rank: In a significant gesture reflecting the unique camaraderie between the Indian and Nepali Armies, Nepal’s President conferred the Honorary Rank of General of the Nepali Army on General Dwivedi at Sheetal Niwas, Kathmandu.
Strategic Defence Discussions: High-level talks with the Nepali Army’s leadership focused on strengthening defence cooperation, including joint training and exercises. The Indian Army also gifted Valour Mount horses and Sentinel dogs to the Nepali Army as symbols of goodwill and partnership.
Address at Shivapuri’s Command and Staff College: General Dwivedi delivered an insightful lecture on “The Changing Character of War” at the Nepal Army Command and Staff College, Shivapuri. He emphasized the importance of mutual learning and collaboration to enhance the operational capabilities of both armies.
Commitment to Veterans and Families
General Dwivedi’s visit to Nepal included a heartfelt engagement with veterans and their families at an Ex-Servicemen Rally in Pokhara. Interacting with Gorkha veterans and Veer Naris (widows of fallen soldiers), he reiterated the Government of India’s dedication to their welfare. Notable announcements included:
Establishment of two new ECHS polyclinics in Butala and Dungadhi.
An increase in the number of empanelled hospitals under the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS).
In a touching moment, General Dwivedi met with Subedar Major and Honorary Captain Gopal Bahadur Thapa (Retd), his former unit’s Subedar Major.
The visit also highlighted the cultural ties between the two nations. Discussions on increased cultural exchanges between the Indian and Nepali Armies were held, aiming to further enhance mutual understanding and goodwill.
Before concluding his visit, General Dwivedi extended a formal invitation to General Sigdel, to visit India. This gesture aims to build upon the progress achieved during the trip and explore new avenues for collaboration.
General Dwivedi’s visit to Nepal exemplified the shared commitment of the Indian and Nepali Armies to peace, security, and partnership. By combining strategic defence discussions, cultural exchanges, and veteran welfare initiatives, the visit has set the stage for a new era of collaboration. Both nations are poised to continue working together to strengthen regional stability and their enduring friendship.
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