Delhi, 29th July 2023: The recruitment of Gorkhas from Nepal into the Indian Army has hit a roadblock with the implementation of the Agnipath scheme. The Nepalese Ambassador to India, Shankar Prasad Sharma, confirmed the suspension of the recruitment process but maintained that discussions on the matter are ongoing. While India has introduced a new mechanism for recruitment under the Agnipath scheme, Nepal is advocating for a return to the previous recruitment system.
Historically, Gorkhas from Nepal have served in the Indian Army with distinction. However, the introduction of the Agnipath scheme in June of the previous year raised concerns in Nepal, leading the government to halt the recruitment of Gorkhas for now. The primary point of contention lies in the fact that the Agnipath scheme’s recruiting process does not align with the terms of the Britain-India-Nepal Tripartite Agreement.
The Agnipath Scheme sets specific criteria for recruitment, stating that youths joining the army, navy, and air force should be between 17.5 years and 21 years of age and serve for four years, with 25 percent of them being inducted for regular service. However, Nepal insists on adhering to the old scheme for Gorkha recruitment, which has worked well in the past.
Nishchal Nath Pandey, the director of the Center for South Asian Studies in Kathmandu, expressed concerns about the potential consequences of this new recruitment approach. In an interview, he highlighted worries about the challenges these young recruits might face in readjusting to civilian life after their service. There are fears that their combat training might lead to difficulties like alcoholism, drug use, or even involvement in insurgency in some cases.
The issue has led to a strain in Nepal-India relations, and both sides are engaged in dialogue to find a resolution. The recruitment of Gorkhas from Nepal into the Indian Army holds historical and cultural significance, and both nations recognize the importance of addressing this matter in a fair and amicable manner. As discussions continue, stakeholders are hopeful that a mutually agreeable solution can be reached to ensure the continuation of this longstanding tradition.
