America forgot the map of India, declared PoK as part of Pakistan

US-India Map Row: The US Defense Department has recently changed the name of ‘Indo-Pacific Command’ (USINDOPACOM) to ‘US Pacific Command’ (USPACOM). But the map released with this name change has created controversy in India. In this map, ignoring the entire territorial integrity of India, the entire Jammu and Kashmir has not been included and Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) has been shown as Pakistani territory.

What is the whole matter?

• On June 16, 2026, the US Defense Department released related information restoring the old name of USPACOM. The map of India used in this is controversial. India is shown in light green color in the map.
• The northern and western parts of Jammu and Kashmir (PoK) have been excluded from the main map and shown as part of Pakistan. Aksai Chin region is also shown separate from India.
• A black line running through the Indian border appears to divide US military command areas (such as CENTCOM and PACOM). From the Indian point of view this map is completely wrong and a violation of India’s sovereignty.
• India considers its entire Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh region as integral. In 2018, the Trump administration (first term) renamed the Pacific Command as the Indo-Pacific Command, recognizing India’s growing role.
• Now in 2026, under Trump 2.0, the name has again been changed to USPACOM. Now the question is whether this could be an indication of reducing India’s strategic importance by removing the word ‘Indo’. This change has happened at a time when PM Modi and President Trump are meeting.

India’s stance

The Indian government has not yet given an official response, but the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Defense remain in touch with the US on such issues. India has always insisted that Jammu and Kashmir is its integral part and no map can challenge it. But it is also true that the recent warmth in US-Pakistan relations can also be a reason for this.

US maps are often drawn on the basis of ‘de facto control’, but must respect India’s official position. Despite the strengthening of Quad and India-US defense cooperation, this incident gives a diplomatic message. This incident highlights diplomatic sensitivities in India-US relations despite the strategic partnership. India’s claim on PoK is clear and it has been continuously raising it in international forums.