The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced the issuance of new ₹100 and ₹200 banknotes, featuring the signature of the newly appointed RBI Governor, Sanjay Malhotra. This is a routine practice followed whenever a new governor takes office. The design and security features of these notes will remain the same as the existing ones in the Mahatma Gandhi (New) Series.
Design and Features of ₹100 and ₹200 Notes
The ₹100 banknote will continue with its purple base color and feature the Rani ki Vav motif on the reverse side. Rani ki Vav, a famous stepwell in Gujarat, represents India’s rich cultural heritage. The note’s dimensions are 66 mm x 142 mm, with intricate geometric patterns matching the overall color scheme.
Similarly, the ₹200 banknote will retain its light yellow base color and display the Sanchi Stupa on the back, an ancient Buddhist monument of great historical significance. The note measures 66 mm x 146 mm and follows a geometric design pattern in harmony with the color scheme.
No Change in Legal Tender Status
The RBI has clarified that all previously issued ₹100 and ₹200 banknotes remain legal tender. The introduction of new notes is simply a formal process to incorporate the signature of the current governor. There are no changes in the usage, acceptance, or validity of older banknotes of these denominations.
Appointment of RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra
Sanjay Malhotra took over as the 26th Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, succeeding Shaktikanta Das in December 2024. Malhotra, an IAS officer from the 1990 batch, belongs to the Rajasthan cadre and has vast experience in financial administration. His leadership is expected to continue strengthening India’s banking and financial system.
Public Advisory and Awareness
The RBI has advised the public to stay informed about the features and security aspects of the new ₹100 and ₹200 banknotes. This will help prevent fraud and ensure smooth transactions. The details of these banknotes, including their design and security features, are available on the official RBI website.
Conclusion
The issuance of new ₹100 and ₹200 banknotes with Governor Sanjay Malhotra’s signature is a routine update following the change in RBI leadership. While the design and features remain unchanged, all existing ₹100 and ₹200 notes continue to be valid. The RBI aims to ensure a smooth transition while keeping the public informed about important banking updates.