Currency notes not to sport symbol just yet

The new rupee logo has received a lot of attention but do not expect to see it on currency notes. At least not yet. Considering the long drawn-out process of bringing out a new currency note design, even if the government and the central bank decide to incorporate the logo on currency notes, it would be months before they come into circulation.

According to sources in the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), there have not yet been any discussions with the government on incorporating the new logo on currency notes. The last time RBI changed the design of its currency notes to bring in the Mahatma Gandhi series, it was several years before they came into circulation. Sources said the design process was long partly because of security issues. Each time the government makes changes in the design, it has to keep abreast of innovations in security features and ensure that the new notes are future ready. At present, there is discussion on whether to introduce polymer notes, which have a better longevity than paper notes.

RBI sources said designing a new note involves getting feedback from the general public, the government and also involving external designers.