1 week Ago By THT Online
Suprabal Janasewashree General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Nepali Army, continued his official visit to India, marking a historic and symbolic moment in Nepal-India defence relations. On the second day of his visit, General Sigdel was conferred with the Honourary Rank of General of the Indian Army, a unique and cherished tradition between the two armies that further strengthens the military ties. General Sigdel also called on Shri Rajnath Singh, Raksha Mantri before departing for Pune.
Indian President Droupadi Murmu presented COAS Sigdel with a sword, insignia, and a certificate of conferment at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Sigdel was accompanied by high-level delegation members including Major General Anup Jung Thapa and others. According to Nepal Army, the investiture ceremony is the continuation of the seven-decade-long tradition between tNepal and India of honouring each other's army chiefs with honorary ranks, reflecting the deep-rooted and strategic ties between the two nations' armed forces.
"The highlight of the day was the prestigious Investiture Ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhawan, where General Sigdel was formally conferred with the Honourary Generalship of the Indian Army by Smt Draupadi Murmu, Hon'ble President of India. This special honour reflects the longstanding and exceptional bond between the Nepali and Indian Armies, a tradition that dates back over 70 years and symbolises the close military cooperation between the two nations," said India's Ministry of Defence. 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 prestigious recognition is a testament to the leadership and significant contributions of General Sigdel in fostering greater defence cooperation between Nepal and India. 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 called-on Rajnath Singh, Raksha Mantri. The meeting 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.
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.
As part of his visit, 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 evening, General Sigdel departed for Pune, where he will continue his visit with further engagements.
Day two of General Sigdel's visit to India was marked by significant milestones that reflect the close and enduring friendship between the Nepali and Indian Armies, a statement issued by the Press Information Bureau said..
