The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced the release of new ₹10 and ₹500 banknotes that will be circulated nationwide. These notes will feature the signature of Sanjay Malhotra, who is currently the Secretary of the Department of Financial Services in the Ministry of Finance. This update is part of the RBI's regular process for managing currency and is aligned with standard procedures when important government officials take on new roles. 
RBI Releases Updated ₹10 & ₹500 Notes: Sanjay Malhotra Signature, Old Notes Remain Valid

Understanding the Currency Update

  • Signature Change: Normally, Indian currency notes bear the signature of the RBI Governor. However, in this case, Sanjay Malhotra's signature appears on the notes as part of the standard design, alongside the RBI Governor's signature. This reflects the government's endorsement of the currency. 
  • Design Continuity: The overall look, colours, and essential security features of the ₹10 and ₹500 notes remain the same as before. The update only involves the signature of the authorized official. 
  • Purpose: This issuance is part of the RBI's routine process for managing currency circulation. The new notes will replace older ones to maintain quality and reflect current administrative authorizations. This is not a recall of existing notes or a change in the value of currency. 
  • Validity of Notes: Both the new notes with Sanjay Malhotra's signature and the existing notes are valid for all transactions. There is no requirement for the public to exchange their current notes. 

Role of the Reserve Bank of India 

As India's central banking institution, the RBI is responsible for: 
  • Ensuring there is enough cash available in the economy. 
  • Maintaining the quality and reliability of banknotes. 
  • Replacing worn, damaged, or aged notes. 
  • Updating security features and administrative details, including signatures, to prevent counterfeit currency. 

Importance of Security Features 

The RBI regularly highlights the significance of the security features in all Indian banknotes. 
These include elements such as the see-through register, latent image, micro-printing, and colour-shifting designs. These features help the public verify the authenticity of their money. Citizens are encouraged to learn about and use these features to identify real currency. 

What This Means for You 

  • No Immediate Action Needed: You do not need to make any changes in your usual activities. Continue using your current ₹10 and ₹500 notes as you normally would. 
  • Receive New Notes Gradually: Over time, you may begin to receive the new ₹10 and ₹500 notes with Sanjay Malhotra's signature during your regular cash transactions at banks, ATMs, or shops. 
  • Both Notes Are Equal: Notes with the old signatures and the new ones with Sanjay Malhotra's signature are equally valid and will circulate together without any issues. 
  • Trust Genuine Notes: Continue to rely on the security features you know to identify real currency. 
If you suspect a note is fake, report it to the authorities or your bank. 
The RBI will officially share the specific release date for the new notes. 
Banks and financial services across India will distribute them through regular channels in the weeks and months to come. This signature update ensures that the currency system reflects current administrative leadership while preserving stability and public confidence in Indian banknotes.