New Delhi: The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, conferred the honorary rank of General of the Indian Army on Suprabal Janasewashree General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of the Army Staff, Nepali Army, at a special Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan today. As part of the ceremony, General Sigdel was formally bestowed with a new appellation as the Honourary General of the Indian Army, with a change in his rank plate, a gesture that underscores the deep mutual respect and the strengthening of defence relations.
This special honour reflects the longstanding and exceptional bond between the Nepali and Indian Armies. This tradition dates back over 70 years, symbolising the close military cooperation between the two nations. The Nepali Army Chief was conferred the honorary rank for his “commendable military prowess and immeasurable contribution to further fostering Nepal’s long and friendly association with India”. It is a unique and cherished tradition between the two armies, that further strengthens the military ties.
Following the ceremony, General Sigdel interacted with a number of dignitaries and senior officials during a High Tea at Rashtrapati Bhawan. This gathering provided a platform for further discussions on matters of mutual interest, enhancing bilateral ties, and exploring avenues for greater collaboration between the two armed forces. General Sigdel also planted a sapling at Manekshaw Centre, located opposite the upcoming ‘Thal Sena Bhawan’ in New Delhi. This gesture symbolises the deep-rooted and enduring relationship between the Nepali and Indian armies, serving as a mark of commitment by both partners.
In the afternoon, General Sigdel hosted a reciprocal lunch at the Embassy of Nepal in New Delhi. This lunch served as an opportunity for informal discussions between senior officials, diplomats, and other prominent figures. The event was an important moment for reinforcing the warm bilateral relationship between Nepal and India, reflecting both nations’ commitment to peace, stability, and strategic cooperation.
General Sigdel is in India on an official visit to India. Today, on the second day of his official visit, he also called on Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh before departing for Pune to continue with further engagements. The meeting with Singh served as a significant opportunity to reinforce the longstanding and strategic defence ties between the two nations. The discussions were centred around issues of common interest., the Indian Defence Ministry stated.
– global bihari bureau
Some countries have indians, either directly recruited in their armed forces, by virtue of being the citizens of their country; but of Indian origin, and sometimes the recruit is holding Indian citizenship, yet there is another category, Indians on deputation to foreign armed forces. We also have foreigners work in some of our government departments; therefore a stray thought traversed my mind, why can’t we have foreigners, man our judiciary, if their loyalty towards our nation is impeccable? Can set a test of rules, some criteria which has to be met before appointment, as a safety measure.