Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi is poised to receive the honorary title of “General of the Nepal Army” from Nepalese President Ramchandra Paudel during his ongoing visit to Nepal. This prestigious accolade is part of a long-standing tradition that began in 1950 and reflects the deep-rooted military relationship between India and Nepal.
This honor has been previously bestowed upon other Indian Army Chiefs, such as General Manoj Pande (retired) and General MM Naravane (retired). General Dwivedi’s visit, which commenced on Wednesday, is expected to bolster the defense cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
Throughout his visit, General Dwivedi plans to engage in several key meetings, starting with his Nepali counterpart, General Ashok Raj Sigdel. The Ministry of Defence has disclosed that he will receive a Guard of Honour at the Nepali Army Headquarters on Thursday. Following this ceremonial reception, the COAS will be briefed by the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of the Nepali Army, a session aimed at discussing shared strategic interests between the two nations.
Additionally, General Dwivedi is scheduled to address student officers participating in the Nepali Army Command and Staff Course at Shivapuri. He will also hold discussions with Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and Defence Minister Manbir Rai, where mutual areas of concern and cooperation will be explored.
One of the highlights of General Dwivedi’s itinerary includes attending an Ex-Servicemen Rally in Pokhara on November 24. During this event, he will honor Veer Naris—widows of soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for the country—as well as Gallantry Awardees. This engagement serves not just to recognize the sacrifices made by these individuals but also to foster ties with Indian Army veterans residing in Nepal.
This visit underscores the importance of military diplomacy and the commitment both nations have towards sustaining and enhancing their longstanding defense relationship.
