Overview
- BRBNMPL, the Reserve Bank’s currency-printing arm, issued a global expression of interest on July 17–18 for 68,000 reams of opacified BOPP polymer substrate to be used in printing two denominations for immediate field trials.
- The tender sets technical and procurement rules: sheets must include features like a clear portrait window, metallic numeral, magnetic pseudo thread and iridescent pattern, bidders must supply at least 20,400 reams, submit certified sample sheets, and the bid deadline is August 18.
- The procurement carries strict security and supply-chain rules that forbid sourcing India-specific raw materials from China or Pakistan, require firewalling any operations there, bar engagement of personnel with prior China/Pakistan postings, and demand government security clearances.
- Officials quoted by multiple outlets say a pilot may start with Rs 10 and Rs 20 notes as soon as next year but the RBI has not formally confirmed denominations or a timetable and any larger rollout will depend on trial results and further approvals.
- Polymer notes are used by many countries because they last longer, stay cleaner and allow advanced anti-counterfeiting elements, which can lower long-term printing and replacement costs and change what cash in daily use looks and feels like.