RBI Issues New ₹10 and ₹500 Notes: What’s Changing and What You Need to Know

Lately, social media has been buzzing with rumors that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released new ₹10 and ₹500 currency notes. Some claim major design changes, while others are spreading false news about the discontinuation of older notes.

This has left many people confused and concerned:

• Are the new notes real?
• Will the old notes still be valid?
• What changes have been made in the new notes?

This article answers all your questions in simple terms and clears the air around the latest RBI announcement.

Are There Really New Notes?

Yes, the RBI has officially announced the issuance of new ₹10 and ₹500 notes. However, the changes are minimal — primarily involving the signature of the new RBI Governor, Sanjay Malhotra. There are no significant design overhauls, and all previously issued notes remain completely legal and valid for transactions.

RBI’s Objective Behind Issuing New Notes

The RBI regularly updates the design and security features of banknotes to enhance durability and combat counterfeiting. The newly issued notes are part of this ongoing initiative. Here’s why the RBI has released these updated denominations:

• Enhanced Security: To prevent the circulation of counterfeit currency.
• Governor Signature Update: New notes carry the signature of the current RBI Governor.
• Replacement of Worn-Out Notes: Fresh notes replace old, damaged ones in circulation.
• Accessibility for the Visually Impaired: Improved tactile features make notes easier to recognize.
• Technological Upgrades: Modern printing techniques ensure better durability and security.

Quick Overview of the New Notes

Features of the New ₹500 Note

While the new ₹500 note closely resembles the earlier version, some updates have been introduced:

• Size: 66mm x 150mm (same as before)
• Color: Deep Olive Green (earlier Stone Grey)
• Reverse Theme: Red Fort, a heritage site
• Security Features:
  • Color-shifting security thread (green to blue)
  • Micro-lettering of ‘भारत’ and ‘India’
  • Portrait and watermark of Mahatma Gandhi
  • Increasing font size in number panels
  • Raised printing for tactile identification
  • QR code with serial number
  • Swachh Bharat logo and slogan
  • Signature of Governor Sanjay Malhotra

Features of the New ₹10 Note

The ₹10 note has also received some noteworthy enhancements:

• Color: Rich Orange-Yellow (earlier Chocolate Brown)
• Reverse Theme: Lion of Gir Forest
• Material: Hybrid polymer-paper blend (for durability)
• Security Features:
  • Watermark of Gandhi and Lion
  • Visible micro-thread
  • Raised tactile lines for visually impaired
  • Gradually increasing numerals in number panel
  • Mahatma Gandhi portrait, serial number, and RBI logo

What About the Old Notes?

Many are asking whether older ₹10 and ₹500 notes will be phased out. Here’s what the RBI has clarified:

• Old notes remain legal tender.
• There is no cutoff date for using them.
• Banks are instructed to accept both new and old notes.
• No exchange or replacement is necessary at this time.

How to Identify the New Notes

To help the public detect counterfeit notes, RBI has issued some simple tips:

For ₹10 Notes:

• Look for Mahatma Gandhi watermark and the number “10” as a see-through feature.
• Feel the raised print on Gandhi’s image.
• Check that the serial number font is uniform.

For ₹500 Notes:

• Tilt the note to see the “500” change color (green to blue).
• Examine the micro-lettering near the security thread.
• Feel the raised RBI seal and Gandhi portrait.
• Use UV light to detect hidden elements.

Rollout Plan for the New Notes

RBI is implementing a phased release of the updated notes:

Important Reminders for the Public

• Do not spread or believe rumors regarding old notes being discontinued.
• Both old and new ₹10 and ₹500 notes are valid for all transactions.
• Only minor security and signature updates have been made in the new notes.
• Always verify notes using RBI-recommended features to avoid counterfeits.
• For any queries or updates, refer only to official RBI or bank channels.

The Truth Behind Viral Fake Notes on Social Media

Recently, edited images of ₹500 notes featuring Lord Ram or Ram Mandir have gone viral. RBI has officially debunked these claims:

• These images are fake and digitally altered.
• RBI has never issued any note with religious imagery.
• Always verify such news through authentic sources.

Benefits of the New Notes

• Improved resistance to counterfeiting
• Enhanced accessibility for the visually impaired
• Increased durability and better material quality
• Boosts confidence and transparency in currency use
• Strengthens the integrity of India’s monetary system

Conclusion

The RBI’s rollout of new ₹10 and ₹500 notes marks a routine update with minimal changes — the most prominent being the signature of the new Governor, Sanjay Malhotra. Old notes remain valid, and the new notes are being introduced in stages with slight security upgrades. Avoid falling for misinformation and refer only to official channels for updates. If you have old notes, feel free to use them or deposit them at your bank without concern.

Disclaimer:

This article is intended for informational purposes only. While the RBI has announced the release of new ₹10 and ₹500 notes, all previously issued notes continue to be valid. Reports of notes bearing images of Lord Ram or Ram Mandir are false and misleading. Please rely only on official RBI communications or your bank for accurate updates.