There’s a fresh wave of excitement in the world of Indian currency! The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has rolled out brand new ₹10 and ₹500 notes, and they’re carrying the signature of Sanjay Malhotra, the newly appointed Finance Secretary.
But it’s not just a change of signature — these new notes come packed with updated designs, stronger security features, and smarter usability improvements.
Whether you’re shopping at a local market or handling cash at work, you’ll soon spot these refreshed notes in your wallet!
Let’s dive into what’s new, what’s exciting, and what you need to know.
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Why Did RBI Introduce New ₹10 and ₹500 Notes?
Printing new notes isn’t just about changing the look — it’s a strategic move by RBI to:
- Strengthen security measures against counterfeiting
- Introduce Sanjay Malhotra’s official signature
- Enhance durability and make notes last longer
- Improve ease of use for visually impaired citizens
- Add modern themes that reflect India’s rich heritage
- Phase out older, worn-out notes in circulation
In short: The idea is to make currency safer, smarter, and more user-friendly for everyone.
New ₹10 Note: What’s Different?
At first glance, you’ll notice the ₹10 note looks quite familiar — but look closer, and the upgrades pop out.
Here’s what’s new in the ₹10 note:
- Color: Still chocolate brown, but now with a deeper, richer tone
- Size: 63 mm × 123 mm (same as before)
- Front Design:
- Mahatma Gandhi’s portrait right at the center
- Sanjay Malhotra’s signature along with the RBI seal
- Increasing numeral sizes left to right for easier reading
- Ashoka Pillar emblem for that timeless Indian touch
- Back Design:
- Beautiful Konark Sun Temple motif
- Swachh Bharat logo and slogan
- Printing year visible on the left
- Special Features:
- Raised print (intaglio) to help the visually impaired
- A language panel showing 15 regional languages
It’s subtle but definitely sharper, cleaner, and more user-friendly.
New ₹500 Note: What’s Different?
Now let’s talk about the star of Indian cash transactions — the ₹500 note.
Here’s what’s new in the ₹500 note:
- Color: Still stone grey, but with higher contrast and boldness
- Size: 66 mm × 150 mm (standard size)
- Front Design:
- Mahatma Gandhi’s portrait at the center
- Signature of Sanjay Malhotra
- New latent image for the ‘500’ number
- Color-shifting security thread with “भारत” and “RBI” printed on it
- Back Design:
- The iconic Red Fort with the Indian flag in full glory
- Swachh Bharat logo and slogan
- Year of printing and updated language panel
- Special Features:
- Bold, easy-to-read numerals
- Intaglio (raised) printing for easy touch identification
Overall, the ₹500 note looks more crisp, secure, and modern.
New Security Features You Should Know About
Security is a top priority with the new series of notes.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the cool new anti-counterfeiting features:
| Feature | ₹10 Note | ₹500 Note |
|---|---|---|
| Watermark | Gandhi & numeral | Gandhi & numeral |
| Security Thread | Plain | Color-shifting, windowed |
| Latent Image | ‘10’ | ‘500’ |
| Micro-lettering | ‘RBI’ and ‘10’ | ‘RBI’ and ‘500’ |
| Intaglio (raised print) | Yes | Yes |
| Color-changing Ink | No | Yes (on ‘500’ numeral) |
| See-through Register | Yes | Yes |
These features are designed to make it way harder for counterfeiters and easier for the public to identify genuine currency.
What About the Old ₹10 and ₹500 Notes?
If you’re wondering whether the old notes are now worthless — relax! The RBI has clearly said:
- Old ₹10 and ₹500 notes remain valid and legal tender
- New notes will gradually enter circulation alongside old ones
- Banks are updating their ATMs and cash handling systems to manage both types
So, you don’t need to rush to your bank or worry about exchanging your old notes. Both old and new notes will coexist peacefully in your wallet for now!
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How to Quickly Spot a Fake Note
With new notes in the market, it’s always good to stay alert.
Here’s a simple checklist:
For ₹10 Notes:
- Look for the watermark of Gandhi’s face and the numeral ‘10’
- Check the raised texture of Gandhi’s portrait
- Verify the see-through register showing the number ‘10’
- Inspect serial numbers for proper spacing and font
For ₹500 Notes:
- Tilt the note and check if the ‘500’ numeral changes color
- Feel the raised printing on Gandhi’s image and the RBI emblem
- Check the micro-lettering around the security thread
- Use UV light to spot hidden security features (if available)
Stay informed, and you’ll never be tricked!
Conclusion
The launch of the new ₹10 and ₹500 notes with Sanjay Malhotra’s signature marks another important step in modernizing India’s currency system.
With better security, upgraded designs, and user-friendly features, these notes aren’t just prettier — they’re smarter and safer too.
As these notes start popping up in your daily transactions, take a moment to notice the details and appreciate the work that went into making your money better. And remember — knowledge is your best defense against counterfeiters, so stay updated, stay aware, and enjoy the fresh new notes!
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