Image Source: Times of India
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced that new ₹20 denomination banknotes in Mahatma Gandhi (New) Series will be issued soon with the signature of the newly appointed Governor, Shri Sanjay Malhotra. This notification, published on May 17, 2025, is the first series of ₹20 notes with Malhotra's signature since December 2024 when he assumed office.
New Governor's Signature:
The new ₹20 notes will clearly feature the signature of RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra, as per the usual practice of featuring the current governor's signature on banknotes after a leadership change.
No Design or Feature Change
The look, color, size, and security features of the new notes will be the same as the already circulating under the Mahatma Gandhi (New) Series. The notes will still bear the portrait of Mahatma Gandhi on the obverse side and Ellora Caves design on the reverse side, ensuring comfort of identification and handling by the public.
Legal Tender Status:
All the notes of ₹20, as previously issued, with or without the governor's signature, or series, will remain legal tender. The RBI made it clear that the validity and use of the current ₹20 notes are unaffected, assuring the public that all the versions are equally valid for use in transactions.
Routine Currency Management:
The issuance of new notes with the current governor’s signature is part of the RBI’s regular process to update and maintain the quality and authenticity of currency in circulation. It also reinforces public trust and ensures continuity in the appearance and security of Indian banknotes.
Cultural Heritage:
The ₹20 note continues to be one of India's most popular small-denomination notes, with its back side featuring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ellora Caves, commemorating India's rich cultural heritage.
Insight
This action of RBI is a regular but significant revision that testifies to the continuity and integrity of India's currency system. By retaining the design and motifs unchanged, the central bank facilitates smooth public acceptance, while the new signature testifies to the new leadership at the top. The assurance that all the current notes are valid further makes India's monetary stability more confident.
Source: News18, Business Upturn, Business Today, OdishaTV
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