Strong Bond of ex-servicemenThe large population of Indian ex-servicemen in Nepal also plays an important role in strengthening the ties between the two countries. With over 88,000 Indian Army veterans residing in Nepal, many of whom are involved in various sectors such as education, healthcare, and rural development, this community serves as a bridge that deepens the people-to-people connections. The Indian ex-servicemen are a unique and vital part of the bilateral relationship, contributing to both socio-economic development and cultural exchanges.Visit to strengthen tiesGeneral Dwivedi’s visit is expected to further strengthen these ties, paving the way for continued collaboration on multiple fronts, including joint military exercises, training programs, and strategic discussions on regional and global security concerns.Military CooperationNepal has continued its close ties with India, with regular exchanges of military training, visits, and defence modernisation. India & Nepal are critical partners in enhancing mutual military capabilities, particularly through training programs.General Dwivedi’s visit is expected to focus on the ongoing defence modernisation in both militaries, through various initiatives. Both countries offer courses to military personnel in reputed military institutions. This collaboration has seen over 300 Nepali Army personnel trained in India this year alone, in specialised fields such as counterinsurgency, leadership development, and peacekeeping. Similarly, Indian Army personnel also undergo courses in Nepal.Joint Military Exercises and CooperationA key pillar of India-Nepal military cooperation is the annual Surya Kiran joint military exercise, which enhances interoperability between the two armed forces. This exercise, which focuses on counterterrorism, disaster relief, and humanitarian assistance, will see its 18th edition in December 2024 in Nepal. The scope and complexity of this exercise are set to be expanded, providing an opportunity to further improve the operational synergy between the two armies.Additionally, India has supported Nepal in its military modernisation by supplying various forms of military hardware, including small arms, vehicles, and advanced training simulators. Through the Nepal-India Bilateral Consultative Group on Security Issues (NIBCGSI), the two countries have held 15 meetings to discuss and address defence cooperation, and several equipment needs have been met under this forum. The visit of General Dwivedi will provide an opportunity to further enhance these engagements, including discussions on improving disaster response mechanisms and expanding regional security cooperation.
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