Nepal has entered the final stages of an agreement to print new currency notes featuring its revised map, which includes the disputed regions of Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura, in China. The Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) officials confirmed that they are working towards an official contract with the "China Banknote Printing and Minting Corporation," selected through an international bidding process.

Printing Process and Costs

The NRB plans to print 300 million notes of NPR 100 denomination, which will include the revised map. The printing contract with the Chinese company has a budget of approximately USD 8.9 million, which amounts to NPR 1.21 billion. As per NRB, each note’s printing cost is around NPR 4.04. Due to a lack of in-country security printing facilities, NRB relies on international companies through a public bidding process, with strict criteria for selecting only highly qualified companies. While notes are printed abroad, they are transported to Nepal via the Kolkata port in India.

Strategic Implications or Routine Process?

The selection of a Chinese company has raised questions about geopolitical motives, especially given India’s discontent regarding the revised map, which claims disputed regions. However, NRB spokesperson Ramu Paudel clarified that the decision is purely procedural, based on competitive bids and company qualifications. “The bidding process is independent of any geopolitical factors; it strictly adheres to the legal and quality standards required,” Paudel stated.

Potential Halts to Printing

While the printing process is set, there is a legal provision for temporary suspension if substantial complaints regarding legitimacy or design issues are filed. Experts have highlighted the possibility that any legitimate challenge from a legal or administrative standpoint could delay or halt the printing.

The Story Behind the New Map Design

The journey to incorporating Nepal's revised map on official documents began in May 2020, when Nepal amended its constitution to officially include Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura within its borders. The decision followed increased national sentiment on territorial integrity, and the revised map was added to the national insignia. Despite India’s objection, which included a statement from Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, Nepal has maintained this map as part of its official stance. The NRB received government approval in May this year to incorporate the map into the NPR 100 note design.

The Legitimacy of Nepal's Revised Map

Nepal's decision to issue the revised map on currency and official documents has become a symbol of sovereignty and national pride. However, the move continues to strain diplomatic relations with India. Legal experts in Nepal argue that this inclusion aligns with constitutional amendments and government regulations, while Indian officials view it as a politically charged maneuver.

As Nepal moves forward with the printing in China, the new notes symbolize not only monetary policy but also Nepal’s assertion of its territorial claims amidst a complex regional landscape.