Reserve Bank of India advances polymer banknote pilot for Rs 10 and Rs 20 notes

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is preparing to trial polymer (plastic) banknotes. Its wholly‑owned printing subsidiary, Bharatiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran Private Limited (BRBNMPL), has issued a global Expression of Interest inviting manufacturers to supply 68,000 reams of Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) polymer substrate with advanced security features such as a clear window, metallic numerals and magnetic threads. The tender, which closes on 18 August, targets two low‑denomination notes – ₹10 and ₹20 – for an initial field‑trial phase. Bids must comply with strict security conditions, including fire‑walling any operations in China or Pakistan and prohibiting raw‑material imports from those countries. If the pilot proves successful, a wider rollout could begin in 2027, while existing paper notes will remain legal tender. The move follows earlier, abortive attempts at polymer notes and is aimed at improving durability, reducing replacement costs and enhancing counterfeit resistance.