In a significant demonstration of bilateral military cooperation, President Droupadi Murmu awarded the honorary rank of ‘General of the Indian Army’ to Nepal’s Chief of Army Staff, General Ashok Raj Sigdel, during a ceremonial event held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. This momentous occasion took place on December 12, and was marked as a celebration of the commendable military contributions that General Sigdel has made towards fostering the long-standing friendship between Nepal and India.
According to a statement from the President’s office, this honorary rank has historical precedence, with a tradition of bestowing such titles on the army chiefs of Nepal and India dating back to 1950. The honor was presented to General Sigdel in recognition of his military prowess and his efforts to strengthen the close ties that have historically existed between the two neighboring countries.
The ceremony was attended by several key military and defense officials, including the Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, and other high-ranking officers from the Indian armed forces. General Sigdel, who is currently on an official visit to India, has been engaged in discussions aimed at enhancing the defense collaboration between the two nations.
General Sigdel’s impressive military journey began when he was commissioned into the Nepali Army in February 1987, and he has since commanded various units, including independent infantry battalions and roles in counterinsurgency operations. He assumed leadership of the Nepali Army as Chief of Army Staff in September 2024. His citation lauded him for his selfless service, integrity, and commitment to excellence, which have earned him esteemed recognition not only in Nepal but also in Indian circles.
Earlier in a reciprocal gesture, Nepal’s President Ramchandra Paudel conferred the honorary rank of ‘General of Nepal Army’ on Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, highlighting the mutual respect and cooperation characterizing defense relationships between the two nations.
General Sigdel’s visit from December 10 to 14, 2024, emphasizes the ongoing efforts aimed at deepening defense cooperation and solidifying the partnership between Nepal and India, reinforcing the importance of military and strategic ties in maintaining regional stability.
