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CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION

“Diplomacy is to do and say the nastiest things in the nicest way”.

Isaac Goldberg

1.1 Background of the study

Diplomacy, a fascinating term, has its own impression and exerts its global importance via
the ongoing circumstances. Diplomacy as defined is the art and practice of conducting
negotiations between representatives of states. It usually refers to international diplomacy, the
conduct of international relations through the intercession of professional diplomats with
regard to issues of peace making, trade, war, economics, culture, environment, and human
rights (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diplomacy, 2007).

In the 18 and 19th centuries the coercive use of militaries by colonial powers led to coining
of the term ‘gunboat diplomacy’ which refers to the pursuit of foreign policy objectives with
the aid of conspicuous displays of military power, implying or constituting a direct threat of
warfare. As a corollary, there have been numerous instances of peaceful use of military to
further a nation’s international relations. This peaceful use of the military as a tool of national
diplomacy led to the use of the term ‘military diplomacy’. Thus ‘military diplomacy’ could
be defined as use of military in diplomacy, as a tool of national foreign policy (Muthanna,
2011). The words ‘military’ and ‘defense’ are used loosely and can be freely interchanged.
While the term ‘military’ could be used to identify activities undertaken by the uniformed
components of the nation’s defense establishment, the term ‘defense’ could be used to imply
the entire defense establishment.

Diplomacy plays a vital role in maintaining the world peace order. May it be the time of the
cold war era or the present world context, diplomacy have no comparison in balancing the
healthy world environment. In the same pretext the world have already seen two devastating
World Wars and numerous of those involving two nation states or a group of nations. Hence
military remains as the focal element in maintaining stability and balancing stable world
peace order. In light if this, effort of military in enhancing foreign policy via military
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diplomacy is the need of the day and needs to be closely looked upon to enhance its
capability. With this view of military remaining as a focal element in maintaining world
peace order an attempt to justify “Nepal Army’s (NA) initiative to Enhance Military
Diplomacy” will be covered in detail in the paper.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

With the foreign policy of a nation shaping the goal of any organization, all the organizations
remain equally responsible in fulfilling and promoting the foreign policy via the effort in their
own fields remaining under the central guidance of the foreign policy directives. The South
Asian Region is one of the most volatile regions of the world in terms of security. On the
other hand the unhealthy competition among the member states of the region has already
paved a way forward for them to develop nuclear capabilities. Not only the developing
nations the threat remains equally viable among the developed states too which have been
equally amplified by the various issues that have occurred in various parts of the globe. In
this pretext military diplomacy becomes a key element in exerting its importance should it be
guided in the right track with optimum support from all the players/stake holders. The
binding documents become very important in this particular period and in context of NA the
need of the foreign policy directive, strategic doctrine, operation doctrine and also tactical
doctrine seem to be very pertinent in promoting the deed.

Protection of National sovereignty, territorial integrity and Independence, being taken as the
three functions of the National Army, Nepal has remained independent throughout its history.
Nepal did not have to undergo any colonial rule and hence enjoys the status of a nation that
remained independent throughout and in fact has one of the longest histories in context of the
Asian nations. This is where the NA have truly exerted its role, convinced its population and
secured its territorial integrity in a rightful manner. With this history of NA, it has been able
to win over the faith of the world community and rightly amplified its importance in the
global context. Today Nepal stands as the sixth largest troops contributing nation for the
global cause of peace and security and its tasks have been highly exemplified by both the host
nation and the UN.

Among the various elements of diplomacy that have been listed differently in various papers
Foreign Aids, Sanctions, Military Force and Deterrence have been listed as the key elements.
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With the same concept of Military force being one of the elements of promoting foreign
policy via military diplomacy, the paper will make an in-depth study of NA’s initiative to
promote Military Diplomacy. The research work will also be attempting to bring out the
viable recommendations by conducting in-depth analysis/research of relevant literatures to
answer the following questions:

1.2.1 What has been the trend in the history of NA with regards to Military Diplomacy?
1.2.2 What have been the shortcomings in the efforts of NA to maintain an effective
diplomacy?
1.2.3 What Initiatives have been taken by NA to enhance military Diplomacy?
1.2.4 What is the present status of NA vis-à-vis military diplomacy and the ongoing efforts?
1.2.5 How can the effectiveness of diplomacy be enhanced in context of NA?

1.3. Objectives of the Study

Having selected the topic for research as the initiatives of NA in Military Diplomacy, the
paper will focus in particular to come up with the salient aspects of Military Diplomacy vis-à-
vis NA and explore the in-depth aspects of the issue with particular focus to cover the
following aspects.

1.3.1 General Objective

1.3.1.1 To Analyze NA’s initiative in enhancing Military Diplomacy.

1.3.2 Specific Objectives

1.3.2.1 To Trace the history of NA’s effort in establishing military diplomacy.

1.3.2.2 To dig in the shortcomings prevailing in the efforts of NA in maintaining diplomacy.
1.3.2.3 To Study the current trends of NA in relation to Military Diplomacy.
1.3.2.4 To come up with the Feasible Recommendations for enhancing military diplomacy in
context of NA.
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1.4 Justification of the Study

A lot of research work has been conducted on the issue of diplomacy. On the other hand,
there do are ample of research works that touches upon the military with respect to
diplomacy. Although Military diplomacy is regarded as an effective tool of foreign policy
and can be found being stated in almost all researches of foreign policies, with particular
reference to Nepal, there have been no papers produced till date which has tried and dig in the
issue of NA and its effort in furtherance of diplomacy. Being the officers in arms and that too
in NA, it becomes viable and a moral obligation to understand the current trends and remain
acquainted with the subject. In this backdrop, the necessity of the day is to highlight on the
issue and bring about the facts and figures along with the detailed study on the issue to show
how Military Diplomacy can be an artery of diplomacy and the ongoing efforts of NA to
enhance the same. Therefore, this research paper can be a great tool for further reference to
NA officers and all others having interest on diplomacy with particular reference to relation
of NA and diplomacy.

1.5 Research Methodology

The limited research papers available and the accessibility to the content confine the
researcher to the analytical methodology to examine the topic through qualitative analysis of
secondary data and other sources of information. The vastness of the field, the theoretical
aspects to be covered rather than technical and the overall nature of the topic limits the
research to quantitative analysis. Theoretical and historical references provide the foundation
of legitimacy for the paper. The examination of experts’ testament and modern publications
establish the necessity of addressing this topic in relation to current world dynamics. An
effort to make the paper more factual and a trustworthy was done via a set of questions
prepared to analyze the view of the population that included both the intellectual circle
having some knowledge related to military and diplomacy as well as illiterate population
having no knowledge on what diplomacy actually is. Finally, reach of the author on various
articles and documents published by NA in different institutional level as well books
published about NA forms the basis for the research. Details of questions given for the
survey have been shown in Appendix-A.
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1.6 Limitations of the Study

Though a vast field to be covered and a magnificent result to be produced for the benefit of
the readers the vagueness of the topic and availability of resources were seen as the general
constraint for the research. The vastness of the topic, the materials generally being in the
limited reach and the classified nature of the documents did become hindrance to the
effective functioning though were availed to the best possible extent through various offices
of NA. The field research and the interviews of the experts that would have aided the
research to become more trustworthy though seem to be lacking in the paper, an effort to
reach the same have been done through the set of questionnaires prepared whereby
encouraging number of intellectuals responded to make the paper more trustworthy. Though
the questionnaires were prepared and interviewed those only remain a part of the research
whereby majority of the portion have been based on limited guidance from the scholars,
materials over the net, articles and related books, which have been used as the materials for
the research. Confined within those set of parameters, the paper basically focuses on the
diplomacy at international arena slightly touching upon the national efforts for enhancing the
same.

1.7 Organization of Chapters

1.7.1 Chapter 1. Introduction.

1.7.2 Chapter 2. Review of the Literature.
1.7.3 Chapter 3. Overview of NA and Establishing Link With Diplomatic Efforts.
1.7.4 Chapter 4. Current Trends, Initiatives and Status of Diplomatic Efforts By NA.
1.7.5 Chapter 5. Challenges of NA in Maintaining Diplomacy and Shortcomings.
1.7.6 Chapter 6. Major Findings, Conclusion and Recommendations.
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CHAPTER II
REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Prof Dr Tulsiram Baidhya, Prof Dr Bijaya Kumar Manandhar and Brig Gen Dr Prem Singh
Basnyat in their Book Military History of Nepal, Part II have amply highlighted on the issue
of Nepal Army. They have dug into the issue of Nepal Army in depth and gone deep into
history in a convincing manner and amply brought out the salient aspects of Nepal Army. The
book also covers in detail all the contemporary issues of the time but has lacked to cover the
issue of diplomacy in particular. The role of NA has also not been visualized in totality and
the aspect of diplomacy in relation to NA have been lacking in the book. With the limited
coverage on the topic and the in depth issues being highlighted upon in the book encouraged
the researcher to come up with the concept of conducting a research on the issue.

Henry Kissinger, in his book “Diplomacy” have given an insightful knowledge on what
diplomacy is, how it has to go and what is the prospect of diplomacy round the globe.
Starting from the history and brushing upon all the aspects of diplomacy, a great deal of
effort has been made to bring about a clear picture. Though the writer seems to have included
all the facets of diplomacy and nicely framed the work highlighting each and every bits of
diplomacy in general the aspect related to military seems lacking in the book. Though
touched upon, the field of military diplomacy has not been dug upon in depth, which being
the issue for the research have lacked in the book and encouraged for in depth study to the
researcher.

Muthanna K., in his book “Military Diplomacy” has highlighted on the issues of Military
Diplomacy in general. Especially focusing on the concept of Indian Military and the Efforts
there from has covered in detail the issues related to the same. An insightful knowledge on
various facets of military diplomacy has been carved in a convincing manner in the book. The
aspect of military diplomacy though not highlighted in totality in the book the readers can
make out the concept and the efforts of military. In this context the literatures lacking with
respect to NA have encouraged the reader to conduct the research on the issue.
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CHAPTER III
OVERVIEW OF NA AND ESTABLISHING LINK WITH DIPLOMATIC
EFFORTS

3.1 Introduction

Nepal Army from its inception period has been the savor of the nation. The organization
which the general public have the faith upon, which is considered as the last resort in every
facets of the national activities and a national backup have been able to leave its footprints in
the citizens minds. The current Nepalese Army traces its direct historic roots from the Royal
Nepalese Army, renamed in recognition of Nepal's transition from a monarchy to a popularly
elected republic in 2006. Composed primarily of the infantry force with small elements of all
other components that a national army has to have, is taken as one of the most reliable and
trustworthy militaries of the globe. In addition to Nepal Army that have its own inherent task
to perform the Nepal Police and Nepalese Armed Police Force acts as a paramilitary force
tasked with maintaining internal security within Nepal.

In this very aspect Nepal Army has been playing a crucial role in international peace and
security throughout its history. Nepal Army was first organized by late king Prithivi Narayan
Shah (1743-1775), the founder of modern Nepal. Nepal, as it came to be unified, happened
to be a buffer state between the two empires in the south and the north of Nepal. The British
East India Company, basically a business company established in 1600, was bringing the
Indian princely states under its colonial control in the south. To the north of Nepal was the
Tibetan region that was somewhat dependent on the protection of the Chinese Emperor in
Beijing (Acharya, 2010).

Late king Prithivi Narayan Shah himself foretold this impending clash between the nation
state that he was trying to create in the strategic location in the southern watershed in the
Himalayas and the expanding British colonial rule in the northern plains of what is now
called India. He said in his Divya Upadesh “the British Army will definitely come into clash
with the Gorkhali army”. However, he advised his successors not to fight “aggressively” (jai
katak nagarnu), but “defensively” (jhiki katak garnu). His idea was never aggressive; it was
just defensive, defensive of independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of his own
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county. He was in a sense the first defender of freedom against the rising threat of British
imperialism (Acharya, 2010).

Creation of modern Nepal through the national unification campaign was in itself a
contribution to the regional and international peace and security. Thus, Nepal Army that
fought for 71 years from 1743 to 1814 for the unification of small principalities into a modern
nation state contributed to peace, security and stability in the Himalayan region. It is obvious
that if Nepal were not founded in the shape that it has taken today, there would undoubtedly
be a collision between the British and Chinese empires in this region (Acharya, 2010). So one
must give credit to the Nepal Army for its crucial role in creating modern Nepal and for its
contribution to regional peace and security at different stages of history.

3.2 Nepal Army in World Wars

Nepal Army actively participated in both World Wars in favor of freedom and security of
nations. The German attempt to subjugate Europe as a whole was perceived as a real threat to
freedom of its people and independence of the countries in the continent. The threat to
freedom in Europe meant a threat to freedom everywhere. Even India that was struggling
under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi to gain its independence from the British colonial
rule fought the World War II on the British side because the German aggression on its
neighbors coupled with the Italian and Japanese aggressions on their neighbors was seen as a
greater menace to the freedom of people and international peace and security. It was seen
that the British colonial rule would come eventually to an end anyway. So the participation of
Nepal Army and the Gorkha soldiers in the British army was based on the philosophical
ground of protecting the universal values such as freedom, equality and justice against the
violent aggressions of the Axis powers, which have been the basis of the diplomacy for the
day.

3.3 The Stage of Non-alignment

Although modern Nepal came into existence as a result of the war efforts of Nepal Army, it
does not mean that Nepal is the prime supporter of aggressive measures for establishment of
peace. The military campaign for national unification was a defensive effort for protection
and preservation of freedom and security against the foreign aggression. Hence it is
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understandable that the establishment of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in 1949
and the Warsaw Pact in 1955 as its counterbalance went against the philosophy of Nepal as a
nation state. As a matter of principle Nepal did not believe in the building of military blocs.
Nepal always supported for Peaceful co-existence with its immediate neighbors, which is one
of the turning point for Nepal’s foreign, and security policy. In this context, Nepal refused to
align itself with any of the military blocs NATO, Warsaw Pact or SEATO. Following this
national policy of non-alignments, Nepal Army kept aloof from the military blocs during the
Cold War decades. This in the later phase has been one of the key elements of Nepal’s
foreign policy and diplomacy (Baidhya , Manandhar, & Basnyat, 2009).
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CHAPTER IV
CURRENT TRENDS, INITIATIVES AND STATUS OF DIPLOMATIC
EFFORTS BY NA

4.1 Introduction

Nepal Army has gone through various phases of transformation from its inception period.
The role of NA and neutrality of it has never changed and never been questioned upon.
Though the belief of the general public during the active monarchy or constitutional
monarchy was seen to be abiding by the king and looked upon with suspicion, NA have been
able to falsify the belief of the general public during the peoples movement of 2006 and
remained as an neutral national entity abiding by the orders of the national government.
Hence with all those acts of NA, it has been able to with the faith of the general public. As
has been highlighted upon in the previous chapters as military diplomacy not being the effort
of NA in isolation but is developed and implemented in close coordination with the Ministry
of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to ensure coherence and
focus across government. Military diplomacy incorporates several defence activities in the
Nepalese Army. A majority of these activities include; international personnel exchanges,
high-level engagements, bilateral meetings and staff talks, joint training and exercises,
defence seminars and active participation in the United Nations. (Nepal Army)

The Nepalese Army has identified military diplomacy as an integral part of the nation’s
foreign policy and aims to 'build and preserve trust and support in the development of
democratically accountable force' commensurate with national foreign policy objectives. The
NA seeks to improve its international contribution, representation and enhance military to
military cooperation with friendly countries through Military Diplomacy. It is committed to
ensure a positive security environment through the maintenance and enhancement of cordial
relationship with the militaries of other friendly nations.

The effort of NA in maintaining diplomacy have been amply highlighted in the NA directives
at various timings whereby it was emphasized on the enhancement of the image of the
Nepalese Army in the international arena through effective military diplomacy. To this end, a
number of efforts have been undertaken from the very period of inception of NA which
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include the participation of NA in World Wars, member of Non Alignment move, a number
of high level official visits to friendly countries, inviting high level dignitaries and officials
from various militaries around the world, participating for the noble cause of world peace and
security under the umbrella of United Nations (UN). Apart from all those there do are a
significant number of exchange visits and training exercises with militaries of various
countries that takes place annually.

4.2 Nepal Army at the UN Peacekeeping Operations

Nepal became a member of the United Nations in 1955 and since then, has been an active
participant of most UN peace operations. The participation of the Nepalese Army in UN
peace support operations spans a period of over a half century covering some 41 UN
missions, in which over 109,855 personnel have participated. The army’s long association
with UN peace support operations began with a modest deployment of five military observers
in Lebanon (United Nations Observer Group in Lebanon) in 1958. The first Nepalese
contingent, Purano Gorakh Battalion was deployed in Egypt in 1974. The Nepalese Army has
contributed in senior appointments at UNDPKO and Force Headquarters and has also
deployed military contingents, military observers and staff officers. The army has also
contributed significantly through the provision of niche capabilities such as engineers,
medical teams and Special Forces contingents. Their devotion to duty and excellent
performance has been widely acclaimed. The Nepalese Army has always accepted challenges
and participated in most difficult operations. This has had a heavy toll on its personnel, and to
date, 61 personnel have made the ultimate sacrifice for the cause of world peace and another
59 have been disabled (Nepal Army).

As of October 04, 2015, the Nepalese Army has deployed across 15 missions around the
world. As a troop contributing country, Nepal ranks sixth in the world. Currently, Nepalese
Army has some 4381 soldiers including 94 female soldiers serving in 15 different missions
around the globe. Nepal has a commitment to provide up to 5000 peacekeepers should the
UN so request. The detail of NA’s current deployment in UN missions around the globe have
been reflected in Appendix-B.
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Source: www.nepalarmy.mil.np

4.3 Participation of foreigners in various trainings and exercises conducted by NA

4.3.1 Army Command and Staff College

With the limited number of seats that used to be availed from the foreign countries for the
career development training of the officers, the need to establish Army command and staff
college was felt and it was established in 29 December 1992 in Shivapuri, Kathmandu. Apart
from the regular tactical training aspects students also undergo the curriculum of Masters in
Strategic Studies. Starting from 2010 till date officers from Bangladesh, China, India, Korea,
Malaysia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, USA and UK have participated in the training, As of present
officers from Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and USA are undergoing the
training.

4.3.2 Nepalese Military Academy

The initiation of Officers Cadet Training started from 02 April 1962 in Army School,
Nagarkot and later was reestablished in Kharipati, Bhaktapur from 29 December 1986. The
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academy that used to be known with the name Royal Nepalese Military Academy was later
changed with Nepalese Military Academy starting from 14 April 2009. Apart from the basic
military training, starting from 1996 officers are also awarded with the Bachelors degree in
sociology and strategic studies. Starting from 2011 Academy also imparting training to
officer cadets from friendly foreign countries. Till now officers cadets from Nigeria, Kenya,
Maldives, Mongolia and Bangladesh have undergone the training from Nepalese Military
Academy. As of present officer cadets from Nigeria, Kenya, Maldives and Bangladesh are
undergoing the training.

4.3.3 High Altitude Training School, Mustang

The school was established in 05 May 1975 in Jomsom. Starting from 1990 school also
started imparting training to the personnel from friendly foreign countries too. Till date 267
personnel from 20 countries to include Italy, France, USA, Pakistan, Sweden, UK,
Bangladesh, India, Canada, Germany, Australia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Korea, China, Sri
Lanka, Thailand, Saudi Arabia and Malaysia have undergone the training.

4.3.4 Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School, Amlekhjung

The school was established in 1977 with the view to impart training on issues related to CI
and Jungle Warfare. Starting from 2010, 37 personnel from 8 countries to include USA,
Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Korea, China and Sri Lanka have completed their
training from the institution. Apart from the regular training, School is also conducting
seminars, exchange trainings and joint exercises.

4.3.5 Para Training School

With the view of producing trained manpower in para jump the school was established in
1965 with the aid from Israel Government. The school has also provided training to 15
personnel from 4 friendly countries to include Bangladesh, India, China and Sri Lanka.

4.3.6 Birendra Peace Operations Training Centre, Panchkhal

With the view of providing pre deployment training before getting inducted into the UN
missions the school was established in 1975. In the year 2000 an exercise “Santi Prayas-I”
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including 4 platoons was conducted and in the year 2002, 634 persons from 12 countries
underwent a multi platoon training exercise from the training center. Similarly the institution
also conducted an exercise “Shanti Prayas-II” in the year 2013 in conjunction with US Pacific
Command, Global Peace Operations Initiative that included 455 personnel from 27 different
countries.

4.3.7 Joint training exercises With Indian Army

The joint training exercise in the name of Ex “Surya Kiran” started in the year 2010 and so
far eight editions of the same have completed. In the training 1443 personnel from India and
1290 personnel from Nepal Army have taken part. Apart from this joint Mountaineering
Expedition and joint Everest cleaning campaign have also been launched as a joint effort of
the two nations. The details of joint training exercises have been given in Appendix-C.

4.3.8 Joint Training exercises with US Army

Trainings and exchange seminars to include Military Police training, Public Affairs Training,
Aviation Training, Explosive Ordnance Disposal training and subject matter expert exchange
seminars have been conducted so far. Apart from those in the presence of personnel from
USA, Mongolia and Australia Medical camps, Exercises related to engineering tasks with the
name Ex Pacific Angel in 2012 and 2014 were conducted. Similarly Pacific Endeavor 14 and
also a Multinational Communication Interoperability Program inclusive of personnel from 21
nations were also conducted in Nepal.

4.3.9 Disaster Management and Special Forces Joint Training

Apart from the regular trainings, NA has also conducted seminars and training including the
persons from different NGO and INGOs related to disaster management. This has amply
prepared the personnel as first responders during disasters.

4.3.10 Cambrian Patrol

In the Cambrian Patrol conducted in UK, NA team participated in the year 2014 and
competed with 119 teams from 18 different countries and was able to secure a silver medal
for the team amply highlighting the professional quality of the Army.
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4.3.11 Big Jazz and Military Bands

Apart from all those listed above the band team of Nepal in 2013 also conducted a program
under the name Big Jazz Band in Korea. NA also hosted the British Gurkha Brigade,
American Band and Bands from Sister Organizations conducting a tattoo show.

4.4 Others

Apart from the regular training phenomenon and deployment in the mission areas there do are
various other initiatives that have been taken by NA at international level to boost up the state
of military Diplomacy. Some of the prominent ones are:

4.4.1 Defense Attaches

NA has been sending defense attaches in various nations and on the other hand Nepal have
been housing many of those from the friendly countries. Defense attaches for Nepal are both
residential and non-residential type. The appointment of defense attaches being deployed in
the foreign land and again housing the same in the homeland have not only ease the task but
intensified the diplomacy in the international arena. The details of the defense attaches have
been attached in Appendix-D.

4.4.2 Military Sports Event

In the year 2011 Nepal Army in due permission from the Nepal Government was able to host
a sport event with the name “South Asian Army Sports Meet (SAASM)” which was a
milestone set for the diplomatic effort at the south Asian military level. The sports event was
the first of its type, which included all the nations from the south Asian region.

4.4.3 High Level Military Visits

Apart from the regular phenomenon of the military activities that remain set at national and
international level, high level delegation and exchange visits by the high-ranking officials of
the militaries from both home and abroad also help pave the way ahead for a smooth
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diplomatic effort. In the similar manner a lot of those are found to be taking place on a
regular basis.

4.4.5 Involvement during natural calamities

The result of diplomacy and the nation being the center of love and care was amply
highlighted in the recent earthquake of Nepal 2015 whereby within no time militaries from
various parts of the globe were found landing lending their helping hands for the people and
overall the nation in need. Not only Nepal received the aid but also Nepal has been able to
lend its helping hands in the crisis in other parts of the globe too. The earthquake of Pakistan
was the instance where NA got deployed with which NA could reflect both its proficiency as
well as diplomacy. NA was also set to be in Japan during the crisis of 2013 but in the last
moment got the schedule cancelled due to the efficiency of the homeland being able to solve
the issue on its own.

4.4.6 Relation with other security Agencies of the Nation

The relation with the security forces has throughout remained cordial. Though in the initial
phase when NP was alone facing the insurgency, in the absence of the clear cut mandate and
the suspicion on the Military deployment as being the rule of the king, the politicians always
kept the military far off the situation. A new paramilitary force, APF was formed (2001) in
between but still could not solve the purpose and in compulsion with some triggering
incidents the politicians had to take the decision for employing NA. The relation among the
SF have always been cordial with the following examples:

4.4.6.1 NA has always taken a leading role in establishing the security committees at various
levels for the effective mechanism of security aspects.
4.4.6.2 NA imparted the basic training to the APF during its formation and has been
providing various other trainings to NP and APF at various levels even till date.
4.4.6.3 NA was given the responsibility in conducting the unified training and taking all the
security forces in the same grid during the phases of insurgency in the country.
4.4.6.4 The sharing of information with the NID have been a regular phenomenon and a
cordial relation has existed throughout.
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CHAPTER V
CHALLENGES OF NA IN MAINTAINING DIPLOMACY AND
SHORTCOMINGS

5.1 Introduction

Maintaining diplomacy has always been a great challenge for any of the militaries round the
globe. Since the effort of maintaining diplomacy does not fall in the hands of military unless
the nation is a conscripted one, the task of maintaining the diplomacy is a great challenge.
The first and the foremost challenge for any of the military, should it be making an endeavor
to maintain diplomacy is winning the confidence of the national government, in this regard
diplomacy becomes a challenging task. Moreover in context of Nepal, which have been going
through transformation and transition in political system and facing various ups and downs in
various phases of history, diplomacy have been a difficult task. The history whereby the entry
to the foreigners used to be restricted slowly opened up bringing the nation to this state and is
yet to flourish. On the other hand a decade long insurgency that Nepal has gone through, the
political transitional phase are the other sides of the coin which have not allowed the
diplomacy to flourish to the extent it had to.

5.2 Challenges at International Level

5.2.1 Lack of clear mandate and National Security Policy

With the absence from the national government clear cut policy in utilizing its military
resources for various facets of national development and the authority being made limited for
the same there exist a vacuum and hence the opportunity that could have been cashed has not
been able to cash to the fullest of its extent.

5.2.2 Limited authority to the Military

There exist no clear mandate for the military to deal with the various stakeholders in the
international arena. The military hardware and other goods that are essential for the security
forces and need procurement from the international market are also made limited. The
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military is having limited authority and government takes it as the burden of military only
and hence a vacuum exists.

5.2.3 Supportive role in UN

Though NA has been deployed for the noble cause of global peace and security from the very
beginning of formation of UN, the role has always been supportive. The countries that have
started sending its troops much later than and in much lesser strength have increased their
capability and taken the leading role whereas NA is still bound to take and remain within the
supportive role. Though the demand of the troops still prevails, the policy and the
environment of trust needs to be developed upon, capability enhanced, troops reinforced,
government needs to be more supportive to establish the NA in the leading role in the UN
missions. Opportunities not being availed for the higher hierarchy in the international arena
should also be given due consideration and sought.

5.2.4 Not being able to implement all facets of foreign policy to enhance diplomacy in
conjunction with national government

Foreign Policy, which is the output of the ingredients like Diplomacy, Foreign Aids,
Sanctions, Military Force and Deterrence, does not seem to be fully functional in case of the
nation as a whole in context of Nepal. Moreover going deep into Diplomacy, which
inculcates all facets of social life to include social, political, economical and military also
seems to be lacking in context of Nepal. The suggested would be to employ NA for the
supportive roles like economic and social development of the country as seen being widely
used in other countries round the globe. In relation to the enhancement of diplomacy NA in
the national level be given following responsibilities:

5.2.4.1 Establishment of various economy generating small and large-scale industries.

5.2.4.2 Making the forces sustain from the national products, hence emphasize in the
production of good required for the national military. E.g. can be reviving the industries that
used to produce the clothing and the other military goods.
5.2.4.3 NA can also be given the responsibility and authority of making investment in hydro
projects, which can generate both economy and employment.
 19

5.3 Challenges at National Level

5.3.1 Relation with civilian counterparts

NA was in the past was deemed as being closer to the king and even at times, used to be
referred as the force of the king. It was the prelude where police force working in close
liaison with the local population kept military far off from the general public. On the other
hand the mandate given to NA as such did not allow the institution to work in close
cooperation with the civilian counterparts. Though some attempts were tried upon but still
remained limited. Through the various ups and downs that the country has gone through,
even during the critical phases when the country needed the military the politicians had no
faith upon, still stating the military to be the force of the king. It was the environment that
gave birth to the new force for the nation, with the name Armed Police Force (2001) to bridge
the gap between the local population and the deteriorating situation of Nepal Police. It was
only in Nov 2001 when the state of emergency was announced in Nepal, the military started
coming in close proximity with the local population. In the initial haste when NA was not
trained and prepared to get deployed in the nation had to face some criticism which even are
the punchbacks till date, but with the development in time and the knowledge imparted upon
the troops the relation have been improved but still seeks the heights of cordial relation which
is to be worked upon from both the local government authorities and the armed forces side.
Hence it is the challenge of the day to convince the people who are still susceptible of the role
of military and take them along in the path of cordial relations. The civil Military relation in
the same context should be given a due priority.

5.3.2 Relation with Armed Police Force and Nepal Police

Nepal is not an exception for the handling of security forces by different ministries of the
government. In the same manner military remain under MoD police forces operate under
MoHA. Having unhealthy competition for various tasking from the government side and as
well among the security forces where there is tendency of hiding information and a
competitive feeling, duplication in task and proper utilization of resources is what is seen as a
result. This vacuum has to be addressed to make the things make more systematic and a
better output.
 20

CHAPTER VI
FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 Findings

Diplomacy has been an effective tool to balance the world order and sustainability of peace
and prosperity. Remaining within the jurisdiction of the national government certain efforts
are made either from the government side or the designated office for the smooth functioning
of diplomacy. In going through the paper “NA’s initiative in maintaining diplomacy” certain
deductions can be brought out which have been listed as:

6.2 Findings from the research

6.2.1 Role of NA throughout has remained an exemplary one. The national effort coupled
with the effort of military can play an important role in enhancing the diplomacy of the nation
and can boost spread the name and fame of the nation.

6.2.2 Membership of the nation in different regional organizations also helps boost the
national security and enhance national diplomacy.

6.2.3 NA’s participation in peacekeeping activities helps gain exposure, experience, and
knowledge about the quality of arms and strategic situations whereas it also helps project
national image, identity, and role. As a small state, Nepal’s contribution to international
security enhances its own security. On the other hand involvement in the peace keeping is
also comparatively beneficial economically.

6.2.4 NA has been conducting various military trainings involving personnel from various
nations around the globe. This effort of NA has not only been able to produce efficient and
proficient soldiers but have spread the name and fame of the nation and project Nepal in the
global arena.

6.2.5 As the popular saying of “landing boots on the ground”, sending and receiving high
ranking military officials have been a means to replicate NA in the outer world amplifying
the name and fame of the nation.
 21

6.2.6 Entertainment remains deep into the hearts and minds if can be handled with utmost
efficiency. The effort of NA in the conduct of Jazz and tattoo show along with SAASM have
been a milestone in NA’s end to enhance military diplomacy which should be given due
continuity.

6.3 Findings from the Survey based on Questionnaire

6.3.1 Should Nepal Army be taking a leading role in enhancing diplomacy?

NA should take the initiative only in consultation and taking the national government into
confidence for any diplomatic acts. The effort of the government should not go in
contradiction to that of NA which if not managed properly will turn out to be
counterproductive.

6.3.2 What should Nepal Army focus on to have a greater role in maintaining diplomacy?
NA should carry the banner of the nation in every corner it goes into and everywhere it gets
the opportunity for. With the reach and the present context visualized the focus should be on
the military deployment for the noble cause of world peace and security.

6.3.3 In what all sectors can military be employed within the nation?
Not limiting itself within the parameters of entirely the security duties it should get involved
with all sorts of social and economical activities to win the faith of the population and boost
the national economy not having the provision of recruiting directly into the military but also
creating a wider sphere for employment.

6.3.4 What measures should be taken to enhance the civil-military relationship?

Army should not be kept far off the population. Ultimately it is the general public whom it
has to work hand with, either at home or abroad. Hence it should come up with some solid
development programs to reach far into the remote corners too not confining into the cities
and the populated areas only.

6.3.5 How do you visualize the role of NA in the international arena?

NA have been doing an extraordinary job in the international arena. No other government
agencies have been able to magnify the name and fame of the nation to the extent that NA has
been doing.
 22

6.3.6 What should be the effort from the national government to enhance the capability of
the military?
The government should consider the NA as its own entity and not as the entity prevailing
from some other land. The government should try and make its forces resourceful so that the
dividend can be sought for at times of need.

6.3.7 Which security agency should take the leading role to appear in front of the
population?
Of course there is no comparison and cannot be made as well. The nature of the work and the
training standard dictates the tasking. With the present standard there is no comparison for
NA to be the guardian of the people and the nation as a whole.

6.3.8 What are the hindrances not letting the image of the NA prosper in the society as it
has to?
The gap that has been created, the doubt that the bureaucracy have on military and the nature
of the work that military have been confined to are the hindrances in not letting the NA
narrow down the gap with its citizens.

6.4 Conclusion

Diplomacy is the need of the day and a power-balancing factor for those trying to gain
hegemony in terms of various social aspects. For the third world countries like our where
diplomacy needs to be enhanced and the political situation has remained volatile for a
prolonged duration this needs utmost importance. In context of Nepal where the country has
gone through political transition for long and diplomacy has remained weak all the national
actors needs to work in coherence and the military who have been taking the name and fame
of the nation to a new dimension of prosperity needs to be given special emphasis.

6.5 Recommendation

6.5.1 Nepal Army has to take a leading role in international arena, especially focusing
participation in UN missions. Though having a considerable number of troops deployed in
missions round the globe, an intact brigade has not so far been able to get deployed, which is
highly recommended with the current status. On the other hand Nepal though a major troop
 23

contributor is not being able to cash the opportunities of getting the higher hierarchies in
various offices which should be sought for through various diplomatic efforts.

6.5.2 The trainings and joint exercises have to be conducted in larger scale involving the
troops from wider variety of nations. The trainings on the other hand have to be given wider
aspect of publicity for the trainings to be recognized and spread the name and fame of nation
into the international arena.

6.5.3 Nepal army has to be able to convince the other stakeholders within the nation and be
able to take them into confidence. The other security forces organizations of the nation also
have to given equal importance and gain the confidence therefrom.

6.5.4 NA should come up with some solid plans to aid the economical activities of the
government. Home made goods and home made products for the security forces should be
encouraged rather than being dependent on the imported goods. The infrastructures and
production houses can be revived for the same purpose.

6.5.5 NA can also go for some larger scale of economical activities in consultation and
approval from the national government. The army can invest for some hydro projects and
local industries to uplift both the living standard of the population and make the society
economically well off.

6.5.6 The NA should be able to take the government stakeholders into confidence and built
the environment of assuring security of the citizens. For the same the crisis that might arise
can be foreseen. For instance the ongoing situation of unofficial blockade from the southern
neighbor and the chaotic situation ongoing in the nation could have been foreseen and
managed in a more efficient manner via the diplomatic effort of NA.
 24

References

Books

Baidhya , T., Manandhar, B., & Basnyat, P. (2009). Nepalese Military History, Part-II.
Joel, M. (1988). Strong Societies and Weak States: State Society Relations and State Capabilities
in the Third World.
Kissinger, H. (1994). Diplomacy.
Muthanna, K. (2011). Military Diplomacy.
Stavrianakis, A., & Selby, J. (2013). Militarism and International Relations.
Williard, M. (2006). Military Diplomacy: an Essential Tool of foreign Policy at Thetre and
Strategic Level.

Articles

Acharya, J. R. (2010). Role of Nepal Army in International Peace and Security.

Acharya, J.R. (2005). Conflict in Nepal: Question of UN Role.
Timilsina, A.R. (2005). A Plan for the Post-Conflict Reconstruction of Nepal.

Websites

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diplomacy. (2007).
Nepal Army. (n.d.). www.nepalarmy.mil.np. Retrieved from Nepal Army.
 25

Appendix-A

QUESTIONNAIRE PREPARED FOR THE SURVEY

CAN MILITARY DIPLOMACY BE AN EFFECTIVE TOOL OF FOREIGN POLICY

Name: Occupation: Date:

1. Should Military be taking a leading role in enhancing diplomacy?

(a) Yes (b) No (c) Do not Know

2. What should military focus on to have a greater role in maintaining diplomacy?

(a) Public relation (b) Taking Government into confidence (c) UN deployments

3 In what all sectors can military be employed within the nation?

(a) Only Security (b) UN (c) Economical activities

4 What measures should be taken to enhance the civil-military relationship?

(a) Developmental works (b) Civic action (c) Exchange seminars

5 How do you visualize the role of NA in the international arena?

(a) UN Missions (b) Exchange trainings (c) National agenda campaigning

6 What should be the effort from the national government to enhance the capability of the military?
(a) Resources (b) UN deployment (c) International exposures

7 Which security agency should take the leading role to appear in front of the population?
(a) Nepal Army (b) Armed Police Force (c) Nepal Police

8 What are the hindrances not letting the image of the NA prosper in the society as it has to?
(a) National Policy (b) Nature of Military (c) Resources
 26

Appendix-B

PRESENT PARTICIPATION Of NEPAL ARMY IN UN MISSIONS

As of August 9, 2015, the Nepalese Army has deployed across 15 missions around the world. As a troop
contributing country, Nepal ranks sixth in the world. Currently, Nepalese Army has 4361 soldiers
including 93 female soldiers serving in 15 different missions around the globe. Nepal has a commitment
to provide up to 5000 peacekeepers should the UN so request.
Staff
S.N Mission Country Contingent Mil-obs Total Rmks
Officer
1 UNIFIL Lebanon 850 - 18 868  
2 UNGU-II, Kirkuk Iraq 77 - - 77  
3 UNISFA Sudan - 1 2 3  
MONUSCO
850 19 4
4 Mech. BN. Congo 1048  
Engg Coy 175 - -
5 UNMIL Liberia 15 2 3 20  
MINUSTAH - Light
6 Haiti - - 4 4  
Infantry
South
7 UNMISS 1548 13 26 1587  
Sudan
UNAMIDF.R. Coy 175 8 13
8 Sudan 371  
S.R. Coy 175 - -
9 UNOCI Ivory Coast - 3 1 4  
10 UNTSO Israel - 3 - 3  
11 MINURSO Morocco - 3 - 3  
12 UNDOF Syria 149 - 12 161  
13 MINUSMA Mali 140 - 3 143  
Central
14 MINUSCA African 56 3 9 68  
Republic
15 UNSOM Somalia - - 1 1  
93
Total   4210 55 96 4361
Females

Source: www.nepalarmy.mil.np
 27

Appendix-C

TRAININGS WITH MULTI-NATIONAL TEAMS IN NEPAL

S. Name of the Ex Countries Involved Held In Strength Rmks

No. Benefitted

1 SURYA KIRAN (Seven Editions) Nepal and India Nepal and India 2733
in every
alternate year

2 India-Nepal Joint Mountaineering Nepal and India Nepal -

Expedition

3 Multi Platoon Training and Ex Participants from 27 Nepal 1089

“SHANTI PRAYAS” countries

4 EXERCISE PACIFIC ANGLE US, Australia, Nepal -

2012 Mongolia and Nepal

5 EXERCISE PACIFIC ANGLE US, Australia, Nepal -

2014 Mongolia and Nepal

6 Pacific Endeavor -14 Nepal and US Nepal -

7 Multinational Communication Nepal and US Nepal -

Interoperability Program
8 South Asian Army Sports Meet SAARC Nations 2012 -

Source: www.nepalarmy.mil.np (Extracts from DGMT Report)

 Appendix-D

LIST OF MILITARY ATTACHES IN AND FROM NEPAL

S. Military Attaches Rmk

Military Attaches for Nepal
No from Nepal
Country Residential Non Residential
1 China Nepal - Yes
2 India Nepal - Yes
3 Pakistan Nepal - Yes
4 UK Nepal - Yes
5 USA Nepal - Yes
6 Bangladesh - New Delhi, India Yes
7 Canada - New Delhi, India -
8 France - New Delhi, India -
9 Germany - New Delhi, India -
10 Israel - New Delhi, India -
11 Italy - New Delhi, India -
12 Nigeria - New Delhi, India -
13 Poland - New Delhi, India -
14 Philippines - New Delhi, India -
15 South Korea - New Delhi, India -
16 Ukraine - New Delhi, India -
17 Zambia - New Delhi, India -
18 Senegal - New Delhi, India -
19 Turkey - New Delhi, India -
20 Sudan - New Delhi, India -
21 Russia - Dhaka, Bangladesh -

Source: www.nepalarmy.mil.np (Extracts from DGMT Report)