RBI Arm Seeks Material for Polymer Notes
The Reserve Bank of India’s currency-printing subsidiary has invited global expressions of interest for polymer material suitable for Indian banknotes, taking an initial step towards testing more durable currency notes.
RBI Arm Seeks Polymer Banknote Material
Bharatiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran Private Limited has sought manufacturers capable of producing and supplying opacified polymer substrate sheets containing advanced security features.
The tender seeks an indicative 68,000 reams of biaxially oriented polypropylene-based substrate, divided equally between two denominations. Each ream will contain 500 sheets.
The tender opened on July 17, while eligible manufacturers have until August 18 to submit their expressions of interest. The exercise concerns the procurement and evaluation of suitable material and does not by itself confirm a nationwide polymer currency rollout.
Polymer Notes to Carry Security Features
The required substrate must include features such as a transparent window containing a portrait, metallic numerals, a magnetic pseudo thread, a shadow image and an iridescent pattern.
It must also be compatible with printing facilities operated by BRBNMPL and the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India Limited.
Applicants must have at least three years of experience supplying security-enabled polymer substrates to a central bank or recognised banknote-printing organisation. They must also submit polymer sheet samples for laboratory assessment.
Lower-Denomination Notes Likely for Trial
The two denominations have not been officially identified in the tender. However, ₹10 and ₹20 notes are reportedly being considered for an initial trial because lower-value currency changes hands frequently and is more vulnerable to wear.
Polymer notes are generally more resistant to moisture, dirt and physical damage than conventional banknotes. Their longer circulation life could reduce the frequency and cost of replacing soiled or damaged currency.
Any wider introduction would depend on laboratory tests, printing compatibility and the results of subsequent field trials.
