Renowned Nepalese Gurkha Soldiers

Nepal has allowed its Gurkha soldiers to join the Indian army for many years under a special agreement. This practice was stopped abruptly last year when India introduced a new army hiring plan called Agnipath, causing tension between the two neighboring countries.

The Gurkhas, known for their bravery, have served in wars for both the Indian and British armies since they were first recruited by the British East India Company in 1815 following a peace deal with Nepal.

After colonial rule ended in 1947, a tripartite agreement between Nepal, India, and Britain allowed the recruitment of Gurkhas to continue for both Delhi and London.

India's new hiring scheme, Agnipath, involves hiring soldiers on a fixed four-year term. Only the top 25% performers will be retained for India's central security forces, while the rest can leave with a lump sum payment of nearly $15,000 without pension or other benefits.

Nepali officials were surprised by India's sudden decision to change the military recruitment program without consultation. The recruitment of Gurkhas has been postponed for now, with opposition from Nepalese political parties.

India argues that the new plan will reduce army expenditure and lower the average age of its armed forces. However, Nepal is concerned about the security risks posed by trained soldiers potentially joining insurgent groups.

There are about 35,000 Nepali Gurkhas serving in the Indian army, including in sensitive regions like Indian-administered Kashmir. The move has raised fears of strained relations between India and Nepal, which have already faced disagreements over territorial claims.