Indian army chief conferred honorary rank of Nepali Army general

Indian Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth was conferred the honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army by President Ramchandra Paudel during a ceremony at Sheetal Niwas yesterday.

The event was attended by Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, Chief Secretary Govinda Bahadur Karki, and Chief of Army Staff Ashok Raj Sigdel, along with former army chiefs.

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Prime Minister Balendra Shah, who currently holds the defence portfolio, was absent. According to sources at the prime minister's office, General Seth is scheduled to meet PM Balendra Shah today.

Official records at Nepali Army Headquarters show that the tradition of conferring the honorary rank of general on each other's army chiefs began in 1950. However, military historians trace the practice back to the era of Rana Prime Minister Bir Shumsher.

Military officials say the tradition reflects strong military and political ties between the two countries, although it has been paused during past diplomatic strains, including the 1989 blockade, when planned visits were omitted.

Army Spokesperson Rajaram Basnet described the tradition as a reflection of deep-rooted connections.

“This unique tradition represents the continuity of cultural, religious, historical, and friendly military relations between Nepal and India,” Basnet said.

He added that General Seth paid tribute to brave soldiers at the Army Pavilion in Tundikhel and inspected a guard of honour at Army Headquarters. He also handed over military and medical supplies provided under military assistance.

Earlier on Monday, General Seth held a courtesy meeting with Chief of Army Staff Sigdel to discuss matters of mutual interest and bilateral military relations.

During his three-day visit, General Seth will address trainees at the Army Command and Staff College in Shivapuri, interact with instructors and foreign trainees, and attend a gathering of former Gurkha soldiers in Pokhara before returning home.