RBI Big Update : In a significant development, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced newly redesigned ₹10 and ₹500 currency notes bearing the signature of Sanjay Malhotra, the new Finance Secretary. This rollout aims to improve security features, modernize the design, and make currency handling easier for the public. With updated color schemes, enhanced anti-counterfeiting features, and a refreshed layout, the notes are part of a broader initiative to strengthen the integrity of the Indian currency system.
Let’s take a comprehensive look at what’s new in these updated ₹10 and ₹500 banknotes.
RBI Big Update : Why Has RBI Introduced New ₹10 and ₹500 Notes?
The introduction of new currency notes is not just about aesthetics — it’s a strategic decision aimed at enhancing security, improving accessibility, and aligning with modern printing technology.
Key reasons behind this move:
- Strengthen anti-counterfeiting measures
- Introduce the new Finance Secretary’s signature
- Improve durability and life of currency
- Make currency more user-friendly for visually impaired individuals
- Incorporate national symbols and modern themes
- Replace soiled or outdated notes in circulation
Design Highlights: What’s New in the ₹10 Note?
The new ₹10 banknote comes with subtle yet important design upgrades that reflect India’s heritage and enhance usability.
New ₹10 Note – Key Design Changes:
- Dominant Color: Chocolate Brown (same as previous but now in a deeper tone)
- Size: 63 mm × 123 mm
- Obverse Side (Front):
- Portrait of Mahatma Gandhi in the center
- Sanjay Malhotra’s signature with RBI seal
- Numerals in increasing size from left to right
- Ashoka Pillar emblem
- Reverse Side (Back):
- Motif of Konark Sun Temple
- Swachh Bharat logo and slogan
- Year of printing on the left
- Language Panel: Includes 15 languages
- Intaglio Printing: Raised print for better touch recognition
Design Highlights: What’s New in the ₹500 Note?
The ₹500 note gets a refreshed version while retaining its iconic stone grey base and size.
New ₹500 Note – Key Design Changes:
- Dominant Color: Stone Grey with enhanced contrast
- Size: 66 mm × 150 mm
- Obverse Side (Front):
- Mahatma Gandhi portrait in the center
- Signature of Sanjay Malhotra, RBI seal, and latent image of denomination
- Security thread with inscriptions “भारत” and “RBI”
- Reverse Side (Back):
- Red Fort motif with Indian flag
- Swachh Bharat logo
- Year of printing and language panel
- Numerals: Bold and bright numerals for better visibility
Security Features in New ₹10 and ₹500 Notes
Security remains a top priority in the updated notes. RBI has introduced a variety of features to help the public identify genuine notes easily.
Table: Security Features Comparison of ₹10 and ₹500 Notes
| Feature | ₹10 Note | ₹500 Note |
|---|---|---|
| Watermark | Mahatma Gandhi & numeral | Mahatma Gandhi & numeral |
| Security Thread | Yes (Plain) | Yes (Windowed, color-shifting) |
| Latent Image | Numeral ‘10’ | Numeral ‘500’ |
| Micro-lettering | ‘RBI’ and ‘10’ | ‘RBI’ and ‘500’ |
| Intaglio Printing | Yes | Yes |
| Color Changing Ink | No | Yes (Numeral ‘500’) |
| See-through Register | Yes | Yes |
| Optically Variable Ink | No | Present |
These features not only prevent forgery but also make the notes more accessible for visually impaired individuals through tactile printing.
Differences Between Old and New Notes
The introduction of Sanjay Malhotra’s signature marks a new era in currency issuance. Here’s how the new notes compare to their predecessors:
Table: Old vs New Currency Note Comparison
| Parameter | Old ₹10 Note | New ₹10 Note | Old ₹500 Note | New ₹500 Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Signature | Shaktikanta Das | Sanjay Malhotra | Shaktikanta Das | Sanjay Malhotra |
| Year of Printing | 2020-2023 | 2025 | 2016 onwards | 2025 |
| Design Theme | Konark Temple | Same with enhanced clarity | Red Fort | Refreshed Red Fort |
| Security Features | Basic | Upgraded | Moderate | High-level Security |
| Durability | Moderate | Improved | Moderate | Improved |
| Tactile Features | Limited | Enhanced for visually impaired | Limited | Enhanced |
Public Reaction and Market Circulation Plan
RBI has clarified that old notes with earlier signatures will continue to remain legal tender. The new notes are being released in a phased manner across RBI branches and ATMs nationwide.
Key Highlights:
- Old ₹10 and ₹500 notes will not be demonetized
- Both old and new notes will coexist in circulation
- Banks instructed to recalibrate ATMs to accommodate new notes
- RBI helpline available to address public queries
This dual-circulation approach is aimed at ensuring a smooth transition without disrupting the economy or causing confusion among the public.
See more : SBI FD Rates for Senior Citizens in 2025
How to Identify Fake Currency: Tips for the Public
RBI advises all citizens to familiarize themselves with key features to detect counterfeit currency. Here’s a quick checklist for both notes:
Checklist to Identify Genuine Notes
For ₹10 Note:
- Check for watermark of Gandhi and numeral
- Ensure raised print on the Mahatma Gandhi portrait
- Look for see-through numeral ’10’
- Check serial number for uniform font
For ₹500 Note:
- Tilt to see color change in ‘500’ numeral
- Look for micro-lettering around the security thread
- Feel the raised print on Gandhi portrait and RBI seal
- Use UV light to spot hidden features
The launch of the new ₹10 and ₹500 currency notes bearing Sanjay Malhotra’s signature is a welcome step in modernizing India’s monetary infrastructure. With updated design, security enhancements, and user-friendly features, these notes are designed to offer greater trust, durability, and ease of use for the public.
The Reserve Bank of India continues to emphasize financial literacy and public awareness, encouraging citizens to stay informed and alert while handling currency. As the new notes gradually become part of daily transactions, it’s essential for everyone to recognize and understand their features.
