In Nepal, former Maoist rebels have a choice to make-- Join the government army, or re-enter society as a civilian.<br/> For the past few years, the integration of former Maoist combatants into the national security force has kept the country in political deadlock.<br/> But a recent compromise between the ruling Maoists and opposition parties has helped move along the process.<br/> Former fighters can do one of two things... join the army, or take the $11,500 dollar pay out to start a new life.<br/> (SOUNDBITE) OTHER FEMALE SOLDIER, WITH CHILD, SAYING:<br/> "I will go for the voluntary retirement. I have a young child; I can't opt for reintegration into the army."<br/> Retired rebels will be given education, vocational training and financial aid.<br/> For those opting to join the government army, they will be assigned to non-combatant posts like construction or emergency rescues.<br/> Government monitors say the process is difficult but satisfactory.<br/> (SOUNDBITE) (English) CHIEF GOVERNMENT MONITOR BALANANDA SHARMA, SAYING:<br/> "It's challenging, because we are dealing with ex-combatants, who have had mixed feelings about integration, rehabilitation and voluntary retirement."<br/> 6,500 of the former 19,000 Maoist fighters will be allowed to rejoin the government army.<br/> Julie Noce, Reuters
