Nepal Airlines Apologizes After Map Shows Jammu and Kashmir as Part of Pakistan

KATHMANDU, Nepal — Nepal Airlines apologized Thursday after its state-owned flag carrier posted a network map on social media that incorrectly showed India’s Jammu and Kashmir as part of Pakistan.

The airline said the map contained “significant cartographic inaccuracies” involving international boundaries and did not reflect the official position of Nepal or Nepal Airlines. The post was removed after the error was noticed.

“We sincerely apologise for the error in the network map recently shared on our social media channels. We have immediately removed the post and are conducting an internal review to ensure our materials meet the highest standards of accuracy,” the airline said in a statement on social media.

“We deeply value our strong relationships with our neighbours and friends in the region and regret any offence the post has caused,” it added.

Archana Khadka, spokesperson for Nepal Airlines Corporation, told IANS the mistake occurred while selecting a Google map that was later used in the airline’s network graphic.

“It was not intentional, and we removed it within 2–3 hours after it was posted when we noticed the error,” Khadka said.

The image quickly drew criticism on social media, with some Indian users calling for a boycott of the airline and others accusing it of “cartographic aggression.”

Nepal Airlines operates flights to New Delhi, West Asia, Southeast Asia and China.

The controversy comes against the backdrop of India and Nepal’s longstanding diplomatic and economic ties. The two countries share an open border, close cultural links and a partnership rooted in the 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship. India is also one of Nepal’s major development partners.

According to Nepal’s finance ministry, India disbursed $107.8 million in aid to Nepal during fiscal 2024–25, making it the country’s largest bilateral donor for that year.

The Kathmandu Post recently reported that India has proposed a May 11–12 visit to Nepal by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri as part of consultations ahead of newly elected Nepali Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s expected visit to India.

Shah has received and accepted an invitation from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Nepal’s Foreign Minister Sishir Khanal previously confirmed, though the timing of the visit has not yet been finalized. (Source: IANS)