And ex-Gurkha instructor Brigadier John Macfarlane has suggested the soldiers come to Scotland -- because of their farming heritage.
The Crofting Commission says they are "excited" at the prospect of Gurkhas arriving in the Highlands.
Brigadier Macfarlane, of Tobermory, Mull, said: "The Gurkhas come from the Highlands in Nepal and are often strong, hardworking men from farming areas.
"Consultation over the 2007 crofting bill should consider extending a hand of friendship to Gurkhas -- especially when some crofts are empty."
A spokeswoman for the Crofting Commission said: "This sounds like an exciting and interesting idea.
"If a crofter is absentee because they live away from the area then the commission has the power to terminate a tenancy.
"But it is landlords who have the authority over who takes over the tenancy -- so it would be the Gurkhas that would have to pick up the gauntlet and run with it."
A spokesman for environment minister Roseanna Cunningham said: "This might be a good way of attracting young men into Scotland.
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