- The initial requirement is approximately 68,000 reams of polymer substrate, divided equally between two denominations. Bids can be submitted until 18 August 2026.
- Polymer notes are manufactured using biaxially oriented polypropylene, a durable plastic material that is more resistant to water, dirt, moisture and everyday wear than traditional currency paper.
- The proposed sheets will contain advanced security features such as a transparent window, metallic denomination numeral, magnetic pseudo-thread, shadow image and colour-changing patterns.
- Polymer banknotes generally last longer and are more difficult to counterfeit. Their longer life could reduce the frequency and long-term cost of printing replacements for damaged or soiled notes.
- Reports suggest the trial may initially involve ₹10 and ₹20 notes, but RBI has not officially confirmed the denominations, launch date or nationwide circulation schedule.
- The supplied material will undergo laboratory testing and field trials. Wider procurement and additional denominations will be considered only if the trials are successful.
- The main purpose is to improve the durability, cleanliness and security of Indian currency, reduce counterfeiting and lower long-term banknote-management costs.
Question:
Q1.Which RBI subsidiary invited global Expressions of Interest in July 2026 for supplying polymer substrate for proposed banknote trials?
a) National Payments Corporation of India
b) Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited
c) Bharatiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran Private Limited
d) Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation
Answer: c) On 17 July 2026, Bharatiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran Private Limited invited bids for approximately 68,000 reams of polymer substrate. Polymer banknotes are more durable, water-resistant and difficult to counterfeit than paper notes.
