The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has officially announced the release of new 20 rupees notes under the Mahatma Gandhi (New) Series. These updated notes will feature the signature of the newly appointed RBI Governor, Sanjay Malhotra, who took office as the 26th governor on December 11, 2024. This move follows the standard RBI practice of updating currency notes with the signature of the current governor.
What’s New in the New 20 Rupees Notes?
The only change in the new 20 rupees notes will be the inclusion of Sanjay Malhotra’s signature. All other elements, including the design, color, dimensions, and security features, will remain exactly the same as the current ₹20 notes already in circulation.
The notes will still belong to the Mahatma Gandhi (New) Series and will maintain their familiar look and feel:
- Dimensions: 63 mm x 129 mm
- Base Colour: Greenish Yellow
- Reverse Motif: Illustration of the historic Ellora Caves
- Other Features: Mahatma Gandhi portrait, Ashoka Pillar emblem, Swachh Bharat logo, and a windowed demetalised security thread with inscriptions.
Legal Status of Existing and New 20 Rupees Notes
It’s important for the public to know that all previously issued ₹20 notes, regardless of the governor’s signature, will continue to be legal tender. The release of the new 20 rupees notes is a routine administrative step and does not impact the usability of existing currency. People can continue using older ₹20 notes without any concerns.
When Will the New 20 Rupees Notes Be Available?
As of now, the RBI has not announced an exact date for the release of the new 20 rupees notes. Official statements and news reports simply state that the notes will be issued “shortly” or “soon.” While a specific rollout timeline is yet to be provided, it is expected that banks across India will begin receiving the updated notes in the near future.
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Conclusion
The RBI’s decision to release new 20 rupees notes reflects standard protocol following a change in governorship. With no changes in design or features apart from the governor’s signature, the updated notes serve more as a symbolic update than a functional one. Until further notice, both the new and existing ₹20 notes will coexist as valid currency for all transactions.
