Indian Army Chief Honored with General Rank in Nepal

General Dhiraj Seth, the Indian Army Chief, was honored with the title of Honorary General of the Nepal Army during a ceremony in Kathmandu. This event, attended by key officials, underscores the enduring military ties between Nepal and India, a tradition that dates back to 1950. General Seth's visit aims to enhance cooperation and trust between the two nations' armies. He engaged in discussions with Nepalese military leaders and presented military supplies, further solidifying bilateral relations. His four-day visit, initiated at the invitation of his Nepalese counterpart, reflects the commitment to mutual defense collaboration.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 17, 2026, 16:16 IST

Honorary General Rank Conferred

Chief of the Army Staff General Seth inspects the Guard of Honour at the Nepal Army Headquarters, in Kathmandu, on Monday. (Photo:PTI)

Kathmandu, Aug 17: The President of Nepal, Ramchandra Paudel, awarded the honorary title of General of the Nepal Army to Indian Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth during a ceremony held at Sheetal Niwas on Monday.

Ceremony Attendees and Significance

Attending the ceremony were notable figures including Nepal's Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav, Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, and India's Ambassador to Nepal, Naveen Srivastava, along with senior officials from the Nepal Army and government, as reported by the President's Secretariat.

The Nepal Army expressed that General Seth's visit is anticipated to enhance the trust and collaboration between the military forces of Nepal and India.

Tradition of Honorary Ranks

This honorary rank conferral is part of a longstanding tradition that began in 1950, where both Nepal and India bestow the title of general upon each other's army chiefs.

Meetings and Discussions

On the same day, General Seth met with General Sigdel at the Nepal Army headquarters, where they discussed various mutual interests and strategies to enhance military relations.

The Indian Embassy highlighted that General Seth's visit reinforces the unique and established defense ties between the two nations, built on shared values and mutual trust.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Additionally, General Seth met with Ambassador Srivastava at the Indian Embassy to explore ways to bolster comprehensive relations between New Delhi and Kathmandu.

During his visit, General Seth also presented military and medical supplies to the Nepal Army, planted a sapling at the Nepal Army Headquarters, and received a guard of honor, as stated in a press release from the Nepal Army.

Official Visit Details

General Seth arrived in Nepal on Sunday for a four-day official visit, following an invitation from his counterpart, General Ashok Raj Sigdel of the Nepalese Army.