Notes Big Update:Recently, many rumors have been spreading across social media about ₹500 and ₹100 currency notes. These messages created confusion and fear among people. Some posts claimed that these notes would soon be discontinued or declared invalid. Because of this, many people rushed to banks, and some shopkeepers even hesitated to accept these notes. To clear all doubts, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued an official statement.
Official Statement from RBI
The Reserve Bank of India has clearly said that ₹500 and ₹100 notes currently in circulation are completely valid. There is no deadline to exchange them, and there is no need to deposit them in banks. The central bank confirmed that no decision has been taken to withdraw these notes from the market. People can continue using them for daily transactions without any fear.
The RBI also explained that it regularly upgrades currency notes to improve their quality and security. This is a routine process and does not mean that old notes will suddenly become invalid. Citizens should not believe unverified messages circulating on WhatsApp or other platforms.
Modern Security Features in Future Notes
The RBI has also mentioned that new currency notes issued in the future may include improved security features. These could include better watermarks, color-changing ink, clearer printing, and special marks that help visually impaired individuals identify the notes by touch. These upgrades are meant to reduce the circulation of counterfeit currency and make transactions safer.
However, the introduction of new notes does not affect the validity of the existing ones. Old and new notes will continue to circulate together, just as seen in previous updates of other denominations.
No Change in ATM Withdrawals
There were also rumors that ATMs would stop dispensing ₹500 notes. The RBI has clarified that this is not true. ₹500 notes will continue to be available through ATMs. In some cases, the proportion of ₹100 and ₹200 notes may be increased to make small transactions easier, but this does not mean ₹500 notes are being removed.
Different from 2016 Demonetization
Many people compared this situation to the 2016 demonetization. However, the RBI has made it clear that this is not a demonetization move. There is no sudden withdrawal of currency and no emergency action being taken. The current update is simply about routine improvements in currency management.