Kathmandu: On September 10, 2024, Chief of Army Staff Maharathi Ashok Raj Sigdel delivered his first address to the Sakaldarj at the army headquarters’ assembly hall. During the address, he outlined his priorities and future directions, while also providing guidance to the Sakaldarj. He began his speech by paying heartfelt tributes to all martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty and expressed hopes for the swift recovery of those injured and currently receiving treatment.
The Chief of Army Staff expressed gratitude to President, Prime Minister, Defense Minister, and other well-wishers for the appointment, and acknowledged the support from friendly nations and their diplomatic missions in Nepal. Key points from his address are summarized below:
Responsibilities According to the Constitution: The primary duties of the Nepali Army include safeguarding Nepal’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity.
National Unity as a Strength: Addressing complex national issues requires national unity, which is the most powerful and reliable force.
Strengthening Organizational Foundations: The Chief of Army Staff emphasized reinforcing the organization based on the Nepali Constitution, the Nepali Army’s core documents, national security policies, and long-term strategies.
Seven Strategic Goals: The “Chief of Army Staff Command Guidance-2081” will include seven goals focusing on national security, organizational strengthening, operational capacity development, effective military information systems, timely training, and welfare initiatives.
Whole of Nation Approach: Enhancing the national mechanism’s capacity through a comprehensive national strategy and developing a unified understanding among all state mechanisms on national security and international relations.
Refining National Service: Efforts will be made to refine the National Service Force to support the development of disciplined and loyal youth.
Strengthening Civil-Military Relations: Plans will be implemented to enhance the relationship between the army and civilians, focusing on education, health, cultural preservation, environmental protection, and asset security.
Effective Military Diplomacy: Military diplomacy will be strengthened to support national interests and foreign policy.
Institutional Integrity: The focus will be on acting in the overall interest of the institution rather than seeking personal acclaim. Strict discipline and military ethics will be emphasized.
Enhancing Military Training: Training and education will be improved to match the geographical and historical context, aiming to increase military knowledge and skills.
Peacekeeping Training: Special attention will be given to managing peacekeeping training and supplies.
Sports Development: The army’s role in national sports development will be prioritized.
Infrastructure and Equipment: The Bankar to Barrack plan and other priority projects will be managed efficiently.
Infrastructure Construction: Delays or irregularities in constructing road corridors like Kathmandu-Tarai/Madhes Expressway will not be tolerated.
Welfare Fund Management: The army’s welfare fund will be managed effectively, with a task force established to enhance its operations.
Scholarship Increase: Scholarships for children of army personnel studying from grades 4 to 12 will be increased to NPR 25,000 annually.
Welfare Pension Enhancement: Monthly welfare pensions for single women retirees will be increased by NPR 500.
Disaster Management Capability: The army’s disaster management capacity will be expanded and prepared for better response to calamities.
Healthcare Benefits: The annual limit for external treatment for complex diseases and treatment limits for injured veterans will be reviewed and adjusted.
Post-Retirement Support: Coordination with other government bodies will be strengthened to provide vocational and skill training for post-retirement livelihood.
Coordination with Local Bodies: Commanders will enhance coordination with security agencies and local administrations within their jurisdictions.
Media Relations: The relationship between the army and media will be improved to support national objectives.
These points were discussed during the live multicast event attended by officers, officials, and personnel across all units of the Nepali Army.
