KATHMANDU, August 17, 2026 : Indian Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth was conferred the prestigious rank of Honorary General of the Nepal Army by Nepal President Ramchandra Paudel during a formal investiture ceremony at Sheetal Niwas in Kathmandu on Monday.
General Seth is on a four-day official visit to Nepal at the invitation of Nepal Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel. He arrived in Kathmandu on Sunday.
A Time-Tested Military Tradition
The conferment of the honorary rank reflects the long-standing and unique defence relationship between India and Nepal. The tradition dates back to 1950, under which the two neighbouring countries confer the honorary rank of general on each other’s army chiefs.
The ceremony was attended by Nepal Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, India’s Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava, along with senior officials of the Nepal government and Nepal Army.
Focus on Stronger Defence Cooperation
Following the ceremony, General Seth met General Ashok Raj Sigdel at the Nepal Army Headquarters, where the two military leaders discussed matters of mutual interest and explored ways to further strengthen bilateral military cooperation.
The Indian Embassy said the visit reaffirmed the unique and time-tested defence partnership between India and Nepal, built on shared values, mutual trust and enduring army-to-army ties.
General Seth also met Ambassador Naveen Srivastava at the Indian Embassy. Their discussions focused on strengthening broader relations between New Delhi and Kathmandu.
Military and Medical Equipment Handed Over
As part of the visit, General Seth handed over military and medical equipment to the Nepal Army, further reflecting India’s continuing defence cooperation and support for its close neighbour.
He also planted a sapling at the Nepal Army Headquarters and received and inspected a Guard of Honour.
The Nepal Army said General Seth’s visit is expected to further strengthen mutual trust, cooperation and close ties between the armed forces of Nepal and India.
Strengthening India-Nepal Ties
The honorary rank bestowed on General Dhiraj Seth represents more than a ceremonial distinction. It underscores the deep institutional relationship between the Indian Army and Nepal Army and highlights the enduring defence and strategic partnership between the two neighbouring nations.
