RBI to introduce polymer currency notes for field trials
The Reserve Bank of India plans to launch polymer currency notes in the Rs 10 and Rs 20 denominations by April-May 2027. The government has authorised the printing of up to 2 billion of these notes for field trials to test their durability compared to traditional paper currency.
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What Happened
The Reserve Bank of India has announced plans to introduce polymer currency notes for field trials, starting with the Rs 10 and Rs 20 denominations. RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra confirmed that these notes are expected to be launched between April and May 2027, following a meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee. The government has authorised the production of up to 2 billion of these notes for the initial rollout.
The initiative aims to address the rapid wear and tear of low-denomination paper notes, which are frequently damaged by moisture or heavy circulation. By adopting polymer technology, the RBI expects to extend the lifespan of currency and reduce the recurring costs associated with printing replacements. The move draws on the experience of countries like Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, where polymer notes have been used for decades.
Background
The Reserve Bank of India is the central banking institution responsible for the issuance and management of currency in India under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.
Standing context, compiled from public reference sources rather than from the coverage above.
Key Facts
- The RBI will issue polymer notes in Rs 10 and Rs 20 denominations.Source not recorded
- The government has authorised the printing of up to 2 billion polymer notes.Source not recorded
- The launch is scheduled for April-May 2027.Source not recorded
- Polymer notes are intended to be more resistant to moisture and damage than paper notes.Source not recorded
- There is currently no plan to replace all paper currency with polymer notes.Source not recorded
The Timeline2
Every article on this story, in the order it was filed. We do not rank the outlets.
5 Aug
- TOIThe Times of IndiaIndia to get its first plastic notes next year: RBI governor shares timeline
CoverageWhat we read
Language reach
Dailies carrying this story, against the dailies we read in each language.
- English1 of 9
- Hindiहिन्दी1 of 2
Regional reach
Where this story reached, and where it did not. National mastheads and wire agencies circulate everywhere and are counted separately, not drawn on the map.
- None carried this
- No source registered
- 1 outlet
- 2 or more
- NorthCarried1 of 4
- WestCarried1 of 5
- Central IndiaCarried1 of 1
- EastNot carried0 of 5
- North-eastNot carried0 of 2
- SouthNot carried0 of 10
7 of the 26 states we read have local coverage. Spread across the country, with no regional concentration. Also carried by 1 national masthead.
About This Analysis
One summary, built from every source. No single newsroom's voice.
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