New Delhi | May 2025 — The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has officially launched a newly redesigned ₹20 banknote, aimed at improving currency security and enhancing cultural representation. While the new note closely resembles the existing design for easy public recognition, it incorporates several distinct updates that reflect India’s rich heritage and offer improved security features.
A Fresh Look with Familiar Elements
The new ₹20 note will feature a light green and yellow color palette and maintain a compact size of 63 mm by 129 mm. Unlike its predecessor, which showcased the Konark Sun Temple, the reverse side of the new note now displays an image of the Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate rock-cut architecture and spiritual significance.
The updated design includes floral patterns and the denomination ’20’ printed in multiple places on both sides of the note. Notably, the denomination is also written in Devanagari script, aligning with the RBI’s effort to increase accessibility and familiarity across diverse linguistic groups.
What’s on the Front of the Note?
The obverse side retains Mahatma Gandhi’s portrait, alongside key elements such as the Ashoka Pillar emblem, the Swachh Bharat logo, and the RBI’s guarantee clause. The note also includes the RBI Governor’s signature, the central bank’s logo, and the denomination written in multiple Indian languages, all consistent with previous versions.
Importantly, the RBI confirmed that older ₹20 notes will remain legal tender and will continue to circulate alongside the new design.
Enhancing Security and Combating Counterfeiting
According to the RBI, the introduction of the updated banknote is part of its broader objective to curb counterfeiting and improve currency quality. With advanced design features and improved printing standards, the new note is expected to be harder to replicate, helping safeguard the integrity of the country’s cash system.
In addition to the security upgrades, the RBI also emphasized the note’s cultural value, highlighting the Ellora Caves as a symbol of India’s ancient artistry and architectural excellence.
Background: Evolution of the ₹20 Note
This isn’t the first redesign for the ₹20 denomination. In previous years, the RBI issued a smaller-sized version of the ₹20 note as part of a broader redesign of Indian currency. The latest version continues that evolution, blending tradition with technological enhancement.
Availability in the Market
The new ₹20 note is expected to enter circulation shortly and will be dispensed through regular banking channels and ATMs. RBI officials have advised the public to familiarize themselves with the new design to avoid confusion and ensure smooth transactions.
Disclaimer: This article is based on official information released by the Reserve Bank of India. For the latest updates, refer to RBI’s official website or announcements.
