Last Updated:
The notes are made from 100% cotton, which gives them both exceptional strength and longevity.
India’s currency system underwent significant changes after independence.
Currency notes are a staple in every country, but banknotes are truly one of a kind. What makes them so unique? From their durability to advanced security features, the currency in India is designed to stand out. While banknotes may appear like regular paper, they are far from ordinary. The notes are made from 100% cotton, which gives them both exceptional strength and longevity. This special paper ensures the notes last for years, remaining intact despite frequent handling.
India’s currency system underwent significant changes after independence. In 1969, to mark the 100th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the country moved away from coins bearing the image of British King George, marking the start of an evolving Indian currency.
A key security feature of Indian banknotes is the silver-colored security thread embedded in the middle of each note. This thread bears the emblem of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and serves as a crucial indicator of the note’s authenticity.
One of the most fascinating aspects of modern currency is the range of security features visible when the note is held up to the light. A portrait of Mahatma Gandhi appears along with electrotype watermarks. Additionally, the note features microtext inscriptions, and the numbers printed on it change colour depending on the angle. Viewed flat, the numbers shift from green to blue when tilted.
The Reserve Bank of India plays a pivotal role in currency management. Under Section 22 of the Reserve Bank of India Act, the RBI has the exclusive authority to issue banknotes. The design and issuance of notes are governed by recommendations from the RBI Central Board, with the final decision on the need for new notes made by the central government after consultation with relevant stakeholders.
