KATHMANDU – Two Major Generals of the Nepal Army, Padam Budha Magar and Pawan Khatri, have been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General, in a move seen as highly significant due to its implications for future military leadership.
Both officers, from the 36th and 33rd basic batches respectively, are now considered strong contenders in the line of succession for the post of Chief of Army Staff (CoAS). Their promotion was approved during Sunday’s Cabinet meeting, effectively paving the way for their advancement to the army’s top leadership in the coming years.
Budha Magar is currently seen as next in line after Anup Jung Thapa to become the Army Chief. Having completed the National Defence Course (NDC) in Pakistan, he is presently serving at the Directorate of Training of the Nepal Army.
The current Chief of Army Staff, General Ashok Raj Sigdel, is scheduled to retire on Bhadra 24, 2084 (early September 2027). Following his retirement, Lieutenant General Anup Jung Thapa, the most senior officer, is expected to assume leadership of the army for a three-year term lasting until Bhadra 2087 (around 2030).
If no changes occur in the interim, Major Generals Madhukar Karki and Prem Pun are likely to be promoted to three-star generals. Subsequently, Budha Magar is also expected to rise to the same rank, positioning him as a leading candidate to take over the army leadership after Thapa’s retirement.
In the event that Budha Magar does not assume the role of Chief of Army Staff, Pawan Khatri is considered a potential alternative.
Budha Magar, who has undergone various training programs in the United States and has also served at the United Nations headquarters in New York, is regarded as a fast-track promotee, having surpassed several senior officers in his career progression. He is set to receive his Lieutenant General insignia from the Chief of Army Staff at the Army Headquarters today.
