A high-profile delegation from India's 64th National Defence College (NDC) visited Nepal from September 1 to 5, 2024, sparking speculation about deepening military ties between the two nations. The 21-member delegation, led by Rear Admiral Sandeep S Sandhu, NM, included senior officials from India, Australia, Bhutan, Japan, Kazakhstan, Oman, and the USA.

During the visit, the team met with Nepal's Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, Defence Minister Manbir Rai, and Nepali Army leadership. The discussions centered on expanding bilateral military cooperation, raising questions about possible future alliances.

With the Nepali Army's strong ties to the NDC, including notable alumni such as Gen Prabhu Ram Sharma, the visit underscores growing strategic collaboration. Could this be a new chapter in Nepal’s defense relations with India and its global partners?

India In Nepal