In the vibrant and diverse land of India, every currency note that you hold delicately in your hand is far more than just a mere piece of paper. It stands as a meticulously crafted masterpiece, the result of the expertise and precision of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the nation’s esteemed central bank. Ever since its establishment in the year 1935, the RBI has shouldered the crucial responsibility of issuing currency notes that circulate throughout the length and breadth of the country. These notes are not ordinary; they carry with them several distinctive and unique features that truly set them apart from other forms of currency around the world.
The Design: A Blend of Heritage and Modernity
Mahatma Gandhi Series
Most of the current Indian currency notes belong to the Mahatma Gandhi series. This series was first introduced in 1996, and it features the iconic image of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, on the front side of the note. His presence on the notes symbolizes India’s long – standing values of non – violence, truth, and freedom.
Denomination – Specific Design Elements
Each denomination has its own unique design elements on the reverse side. For example, the ₹2000 note, which was introduced after the demonetization drive in 2016, has an image of the Mangalyaan, India’s Mars orbiter mission. This represents India’s foray into space technology and scientific progress. The ₹500 note, on the other hand, has an image of the Red Fort in Delhi. The Red Fort is not only a historical monument but also a symbol of India’s struggle for independence. These images not only make the notes easily distinguishable but also serve as a source of national pride.
Language Diversity
One of the most remarkable aspects of RBI currency notes is the representation of India’s linguistic diversity. Each note has the denomination written in 17 languages. On the front side, the denomination is written in Hindi at the top, and on the reverse side, it is written in English. The other 15 regional languages are printed in the language panel on the reverse side of the currency note. This ensures that people across the linguistically diverse nation of India can easily identify the value of the note.
Security Features: Keeping Counterfeiting at Bay
Watermarks
All RBI currency notes have watermarks. When held against the light, you can see a clear image of Mahatma Gandhi on the note. Additionally, there are also denomination – specific watermarks. For example, on the ₹2000 note, there is a numeral 2000 in the watermark area, which is visible when the note is held against light. Watermarks are an important security feature as they are difficult to replicate.
Security Thread
A security thread runs vertically through the note. On the new series of notes, the security thread has the words “RBI”, “BHARAT” (the Hindi word for India), and the denomination of the note printed on it. When the note is tilted, the security thread changes color. This is a highly effective anti – counterfeiting measure, as counterfeiters find it extremely challenging to create a security thread with the same properties.
Intaglio Printing
The text and the images on RBI currency notes are printed using intaglio printing. This type of printing gives a raised feel to the touch. You can feel the raised texture of Mahatma Gandhi’s portrait, the RBI emblem, and the denominational numerals. For visually impaired people, this raised printing is a crucial feature as it helps them to identify the denomination of the note.
Micro – Lettering
If you look closely at an RBI currency note, you will find micro – lettering. This is very small text that is printed on the note. For example, on the new ₹500 note, there is micro – lettering that reads “RBI” and “500” in various places on the note. Micro – lettering is a security feature that is difficult to reproduce accurately, thus helping to prevent counterfeiting.
Issuance and Backing of Currency Notes
Legal Tender Status
All currency notes issued by the RBI are legal tender in India. This means that they must be accepted as a form of payment for all debts, public or private, within the country. No one can refuse to accept Indian currency notes for the settlement of transactions. This legal tender status gives the currency notes their value and ensures the smooth functioning of the economy.
Asset – Backed Currency
According to Section 33 of the RBI Act, 1934, all banknotes issued by the RBI are backed by assets. These assets include gold, government securities, and foreign currency assets. The RBI has to maintain a minimum reserve of ₹200 crore (out of which ₹115 crore should be in gold) to issue currency notes. This asset – backed system gives confidence to the public in the value of the currency notes. It also helps in maintaining the stability of the currency and the overall economy.
Process of Issuance
The process of issuing currency notes is a well – regulated one. The RBI first decides on the need for new currency notes based on factors such as the growth of the economy, replacement of soiled and damaged notes, and the need to counter counterfeiting. The notes are then printed at four printing presses in India – two owned by the Government of India (in Nashik and Dewas) and two by the RBI (in Mysore and Salboni). Once printed, the notes are distributed to the banks across the country through the RBI’s regional offices.
Features for the Visually Impaired
Raised Print
As mentioned earlier, the intaglio printing used on RBI currency notes results in a raised texture. This is especially useful for visually impaired people. The raised numerals and symbols on the notes help them to identify the denomination. For example, the ₹2000 note has a raised print of “2000” on the right – hand side, and the ₹500 note has a raised print of “500” on the right – hand side.
Bleed Lines
Bleed lines are another feature designed for the visually impaired. The ₹2000 note has seven bleed lines, the ₹500 note has five bleed lines, and the ₹200 note has four bleed lines. These lines are printed in a way that they can be felt by touch. The number of bleed lines helps the visually impaired to quickly and accurately identify the denomination of the note.
Conclusion
RBI currency notes are a unique blend of design, security, and functionality. Their design reflects India’s rich heritage, scientific achievements, and linguistic diversity. The advanced security features ensure that the currency remains protected from counterfeiting, which is essential for the stability of the economy. The fact that the notes are legal tender and asset – backed gives them their value. Moreover, the features for the visually impaired make these notes inclusive, ensuring that everyone in the country can use and identify them. In short, an RBI currency note is much more than a simple medium of exchange; it is a symbol of India’s economic and social fabric.
Related topics
