KATHMANDU: Chief of the Army Staff Ashok Raj Sigdel has said that the Nepali Army remains firmly committed to maintaining national unity.
Speaking at a conference of retired army personnel in Damauli on Tuesday, Army Chief Sigdel said the Nepali Army has made an unparalleled contribution over its 263-year history in safeguarding the country’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity.
He stressed the need to further strengthen the institution so it can preserve its historic legacy while effectively addressing present and future challenges.
Sigdel also highlighted the army’s role in protecting national sovereignty, ensuring internal security, supporting development efforts, managing disasters, and contributing to international peacekeeping missions, noting that these efforts have established the Nepali Army as a trusted and respected institution both at home and abroad.
On the occasion, he said the Nepali Army Welfare Board is working to expand its network to bring beneficiaries under a unified system.
However, he pointed out challenges in sustaining welfare programs, citing economic slowdown, pressure in the banking sector, declining returns on fixed deposits, and a reduction in the number of troops deployed in peacekeeping missions.
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