Why? Because for them, a 4-year Agniveer contract pays better than 10 years in the Gulf. Yes, you read that right. These are men whose families have served India’s Army for 200+ years; since the Sugauli Treaty. But since 2020, Nepal paused their recruitment, citing uncertainty around Agnipath’s 25% retention rate. Now, with Army Chief Gen. Dhiraj Seth visiting Nepal next week, voices are rising: “Give us Agniveer slots, not Gulf sweatshops.” The irony? India’s own ex-top brass (including Gen. Chauhan and Rawat) started in Gorkha regiments. The ball’s in Nepal’s court; but for thousands of young Nepali men, this isn’t policy. It’s legacy.