Kathmandu, Nov 28: Nepal’s central bank on Thursday issued new Rs 100 currency notes featuring a revised map that includes the Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura regions—territories India claims as its own.
The new note, bearing the signature of former Governor Maha Prasad Adhikari and dated 2081 BS (2024), includes a central map of Nepal, Mt Everest on the left, a Rhododendron watermark on the right, the Ashoka Pillar with “Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha,” and a horned rhino on the back. Only the Rs 100 denomination features Nepal’s map among all currency notes.
This move is likely to reignite tensions, reminiscent of the 2020 row when the Nepal government, under K P Sharma Oli, first included these territories in its official map, prompting strong objections from India. Analysts note that the new issuance, printed by a Chinese company, coincides with Kathmandu’s growing ties with Beijing, raising speculation over external influence.
Experts suggest India should respond diplomatically rather than rhetorically to avoid inflaming nationalist sentiments in Nepal. Foreign policy analyst Robinder Sachdev noted that loud reactions could benefit anti-India political factions, while former diplomat KP Fabian emphasized that diplomatic engagement is the proper channel for resolving territorial disputes.
Nepal shares a 1,850 km border with five Indian states and maintains close trade, military, and cultural ties with India, often described as the “roti-beti ka rishta.” (Agencies)
