The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently released new batches of ₹10 and ₹500 denomination banknotes bearing the signature of the newly appointed RBI Governor, Sanjay Malhotra. This update, officially rolled out in April 2025, continues the Mahatma Gandhi (New Series) of banknotes and comes with no change in design, color, or size. The only update is the Governor’s signature, which reflects the transition of leadership in the central bank.
Let’s understand in detail what this currency update means, what changes have been introduced, and what the general public needs to know.
What is the Latest Currency Update by RBI?
The RBI has printed and issued new ₹10 and ₹500 notes dated 2024, which began circulating from April 2025. These notes now bear the signature of the new RBI Governor, Sanjay Malhotra. This is a routine update, and the purpose is to officially reflect the appointment of the new Governor.
It is important to note that the design, security features, and size of the notes remain exactly the same. This step is purely administrative and does not mean demonetisation or withdrawal of old notes.
Key Highlights of the New Banknotes
- Denominations Introduced: ₹10 and ₹500
- New RBI Governor’s Signature: Sanjay Malhotra
- Design: Same as Mahatma Gandhi (New Series)
- Year of Printing: 2024
- Date of Release: April 2025
- Old Notes Status: Still legal and valid
Features of the New ₹10 Note (2025 Edition)
The ₹10 note retains its previous design and brown color theme. It features the image of Mahatma Gandhi and showcases the Sun Temple, Konark, on the reverse side.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Denomination | ₹10 |
| Theme | Sun Temple, Konark |
| Color Scheme | Chocolate Brown |
| Size | 63 mm x 123 mm |
| Series | Mahatma Gandhi (New Series) |
| Year of Printing | 2024 |
| Governor’s Signature | Sanjay Malhotra |
| Security Features | Watermark, Micro-lettering, Latent Image |
Features of the New ₹500 Note (2025 Edition)
The ₹500 note remains stone grey and features the Red Fort, a symbol of India’s rich heritage.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Denomination | ₹500 |
| Theme | Red Fort |
| Color Scheme | Stone Grey |
| Size | 66 mm x 150 mm |
| Series | Mahatma Gandhi (New Series) |
| Year of Printing | 2024 |
| Governor’s Signature | Sanjay Malhotra |
| Security Features | Security Thread, Color Shifting Ink, Watermark |
Why RBI Issues New Notes with Governor’s Signature
Every time a new Governor takes charge, the RBI issues currency notes with the updated signature. This is a standard procedure and has been followed in the past as well.
The Purpose Behind It:
- To officially authorize the role of the new Governor
- To maintain trust and uniformity in the currency system
- To continue the issuance of currency as per RBI norms
Old notes signed by the previous Governors remain valid and legal tender. Citizens are not required to exchange their old notes.
Public Advisory from RBI
To avoid confusion, RBI has issued a public clarification regarding the release of new notes:
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- Old and new notes are both legal and valid
- No changes in design or features
- No need to visit banks for exchanging notes
- The rollout is part of a regular update, not demonetisation
Timeline of Events: New Notes Circulation
| Month/Year | Event Description |
|---|---|
| Jan 2024 | Sanjay Malhotra appointed RBI Governor |
| Mar 2024 | Printing of new currency notes approved |
| Apr 2025 | First batch of new notes officially released |
| May–Jun 2025 | Circulation begins across ATMs and banks |
| Jul 2025 | Expected full circulation nationwide |
Impact on Common People
For the general public, this currency update has no impact on day-to-day financial transactions. There is no need to exchange or deposit old ₹10 or ₹500 notes.
What You Should Remember:
- Continue using old and new notes alike
- Identify the new notes by looking for Sanjay Malhotra’s signature
- Avoid rumors about demonetisation or withdrawal of notes
- Keep following official RBI updates
RBI’s Future Strategy for Currency
While digital payments are rising, RBI continues to maintain physical currency circulation, especially for rural and offline markets.
RBI’s Vision for Currency in 2025 and Beyond:
- Introduce durable, long-lasting currency paper
- Adopt environmentally friendly printing technology
- Launch periodic updates aligned with leadership transitions
- Expand awareness of Digital Rupee, while continuing traditional currency
Conclusion
The release of new ₹10 and ₹500 notes with RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra’s signature is a routine and necessary administrative step. It does not affect the validity of old notes, nor does it indicate any major monetary reform.
Citizens are advised to stay calm, avoid unnecessary bank visits, and keep themselves updated only through official RBI channels. The new notes will reach the public gradually through banks and ATMs, just like any other currency release.
This update is part of a continuous and transparent currency management process that ensures trust, legality, and consistency in India’s monetary system.
