COAS General Sigdel Embarks on Official Visit to India

General Ashok Raj Sigdel, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Nepali Army, departed for New Delhi, India, today on an official visit at the invitation of General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS of the Indian Army. The visit, spanning from December 11 to December 14, includes a series of high-profile engagements aimed at fostering military diplomacy and bilateral cooperation.

General Sigdel is accompanied by an official delegation of nine members, including Mrs. Nita Chhetri Sigdel, President of the Nepali Army Wives Association (NAWA) and spouse of the COAS. Assistant COAS Lt Gen Pradip Jung KC bid farewell to General Sigdel at Tribhuvan International Airport earlier this morning. Before his departure, General Sigdel was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honor at the Army Headquarters in Kathmandu.

A highlight of the visit will be the conferral of the honorary rank of General of the Indian Army upon General Sigdel by Her Excellency, the President of India, during an investiture ceremony on December 12. This longstanding tradition symbolizes the deep-rooted military ties between the two nations.

General Sigdel is also scheduled to meet senior Indian defense and government officials, fostering discussions on strengthening bilateral military collaboration. Additionally, he will serve as the Reviewing Officer at the passing out parade of officer cadets at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun.

During General Sigdel’s absence, Assistant COAS Lt Gen Pradip Jung KC will act as the officiating COAS of the Nepali Army.

General Sigdel and his delegation are set to return to Nepal on December 15, 2024, marking the conclusion of this significant diplomatic and ceremonial visit.

This visit underscores the enduring partnership between the Nepali and Indian armies, reflecting shared commitments to regional security and mutual respect.