Kathmandu, February 16:

Nepal Army today marked Army Day in the absence of King for the first time. Previously, the king as a supreme-commander-in-chief used to be present to mark the feu de joie at Army pavilion. In the king’s absence, crown prince or field marshal used to be present to receive the salute. This is the first time in military history that COAS received the salute on the Army Day. COAS General Rookmangud Katawal received the salute because PM GP Koirala, who was scheduled to be the chief guest, could not turn up.