RBI targets polymer currency-note rollout in early FY28

The Reserve Bank of India plans to introduce polymer currency notes in early FY28, subject to execution of its rollout plan. The durable notes are expected to initially support high-velocity, lower-denomination cash transactions.

— Filed Wed, 5 Aug, 2026, 17:08 IST · Source The Hindu BusinessLine · Updated

RBI plans to introduce durable polymer currency notes in early FY28, initially benefiting high-velocity lower-denomination cash transactions. Governor Sanjay Malhotra said the rollout is contingent on plans proceeding as scheduled.

Why this matters

No related recent RBI signals were provided. The polymer-note rollout plan points to a potential change in cash handling for high-frequency, lower-value transactions across physical retail.

Omni-channel is accelerating, up 213700% QoQ, as physical cash infrastructure remains relevant to retail access.