Dhiraj Seth Nepal Honour marked another important moment in the long-standing defence relationship between India and Nepal. Indian Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth received the honorary rank of General of the Nepali Army during a ceremony at Sheetal Niwas in Kathmandu on August 17, 2026. Nepal President Ram Chandra Paudel formally conferred the honour, continuing a special military tradition between the two neighbouring countries.

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A Long-Standing Military Tradition

The honorary General rank is part of a unique tradition between India and Nepal. Since 1950, the army chiefs of the two countries have been given the honorary rank of General in the other country’s army. The practice reflects the close historical and professional relationship between the Indian Army and the Nepali Army.

The tradition has continued through several decades despite changes in the regional and global security environment. It also represents the wider relationship between the two countries, which includes military training, official visits, joint activities and defence cooperation.

General Seth’s Programme in Kathmandu

During his visit to Nepal, General Dhiraj Seth took part in several official military activities. He inspected a Guard of Honour at the Nepali Army Headquarters and paid tribute at the Army Pavilion in Tundikhel, Kathmandu.

The Indian Army Chief also held discussions with Nepali Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel. The talks covered areas of mutual interest and opportunities to further strengthen military cooperation between the two countries.

The investiture ceremony was attended by senior Nepalese officials, including Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav and Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal. India’s Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava was also present.

Defence Equipment Support to Nepal

During the visit, General Seth handed over military and medical equipment to the Nepal Army. Such assistance forms part of India’s wider defence cooperation with Nepal and is aimed at supporting the capabilities of the Nepali Army.

India and Nepal have maintained regular defence exchanges for many years. Military personnel from Nepal have also participated in training programmes in India, while the two armies have continued professional exchanges and other engagements.

India-Nepal Defence Relationship

The Dhiraj Seth Nepal Honour comes against the background of India’s broader relationship with Nepal. The two countries share close historical, cultural and people-to-people connections along with a long and open border.

The Indian Army and Nepali Army cooperate in several areas, including military education, training, disaster response and humanitarian assistance. Their relationship has also included high-level visits and joint military engagements.

Disaster response is particularly important because both countries face risks from earthquakes, floods, landslides and other natural disasters. Military cooperation can help improve coordination and emergency response during major disasters.

General Seth’s Further Nepal Visit

General Dhiraj Seth‘s Nepal visit also includes engagements outside Kathmandu. He was scheduled to address student officers at the Army Command and Staff Course in Shivapuri on August 18.

The visit was also scheduled to include a trip to Pokhara on August 19 for an Ex-Servicemen Rally. The programme highlights another important link between the two armies, as retired personnel and former soldiers continue to contribute to the close military relationship between India and Nepal.

A Symbol of Close Army Ties

The honorary General rank is largely ceremonial, but it carries considerable importance in India-Nepal military relations. It reflects the history of cooperation between the two armies and provides an opportunity for both sides to reaffirm their commitment to continued engagement.

The latest ceremony in Kathmandu therefore combines military tradition with present-day cooperation. At a time when regional security, disaster preparedness and defence coordination remain important, regular communication between the Indian Army and Nepali Army continues to play a role in maintaining close ties between the two neighbouring countries.