Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi arrived in Nepal on Wednesday for a four-day visit aimed at enhancing the already robust defense and strategic partnership between India and Nepal amid shifting regional security dynamics. Highlighting the historical ties between the two nations, Gen Dwivedi is scheduled to be awarded the honorary rank of “General of the Nepal Army” by Nepalese President Ramchandra Paudel on Thursday. This accolade marks a continuation of a tradition that dates back to 1950, underscoring the deep-rooted connections between their military forces.
Throughout his visit, which extends from November 20 to 24, Gen Dwivedi will engage in extensive discussions with key figures in the Nepalese government and military, including his counterpart Gen Ashok Raj Sigdel, as well as President Paudel, Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, and Defence Minister Manbir Rai. These discussions will be pivotal in exploring new avenues for collaboration while reinforcing existing military cooperation.
On Thursday, Gen Dwivedi is expected to receive a briefing from the Director General of Military Operations of the Nepali Army, specifically addressing issues pertinent to both nations’ security interests. This interaction is anticipated to foster a more cohesive approach to defense strategies between the two neighboring countries.
In addition to official engagements, Gen Dwivedi is likely to visit the Shri Muktinath temple in the Mustang region, a site of spiritual significance. This visit carries particular resonance as the late Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat had expressed an intention to visit this sacred location. In memory of Gen Rawat, a bell named the “Bipin Bell” was installed at the temple in February 2023.
The focus of Gen Dwivedi’s visit also includes discussions on ongoing defense modernization efforts within both militaries. One of the cornerstone initiatives of India-Nepal military cooperation is the annual ‘Surya Kiran’ joint military exercise. This exercise, centered on enhancing interoperability in counterterrorism, disaster relief, and humanitarian assistance, is set to reach its 18th edition in December in Nepal. Plans to expand the scope and complexity of the exercise indicate a commitment to improving operational synergy between the Indian and Nepalese armed forces.
India has been an active partner in Nepal’s military modernization efforts, consistently supplying a range of military equipment and hardware, including small arms, vehicles, and advanced training simulators. This collaboration is seen as an integral part of strengthening the overall security architecture in the region.
