NA number is determined based on specific need: Khadka

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Purna Bahadur Khadka has said the national needs and international contexts are the bases of determining the number of Nepali soldiers. According to the Khadka, the fixation on the number of NA personnel is not absolute. 

While replying to questions with regard to budget allocations to the Ministry of Defence and subordinate bodies for the fiscal year 2023-24 in a meeting of the House of Representatives Monday, DPM Khadka said pointed out the NA force was determined based on its constitutional responsibilities, the duties and responsibilities allocated by the government, requirements of the international peacekeeping mission, nation’s geography and the remoteness. Talking about the legal provision for the fixation of the NA size by the government on the recommendation of the National Security Council, Minister Khadka pledged to enhance the competency.

Defence Minister Khadka informed the parliament that around 10,000 Army personnel have been mobilised at 12 national parks, one wildlife reserve and one hunting reserve of the total 20 protected areas.