TFP Bureau, New Delhi, February 21, 2025: Recent social media reports suggesting that Mahatma Gandhi’s portrait will be removed from Indian currency notes have caused widespread debate. However, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has officially denied these claims, calling them “baseless and misleading.”
Debunking the Speculation: No Plans to Replace Gandhi’s Image
Rumors had surfaced that the RBI was considering replacing Gandhi’s portrait with images of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore and former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. Allegedly, the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India, under the Ministry of Finance, had submitted watermark samples of these eminent figures to IIT Delhi for evaluation.
In response, the RBI issued a statement clarifying: “There is no proposal to replace Mahatma Gandhi’s image on banknotes. Reports suggesting such changes are completely unfounded.”
Understanding the Banknote Design Process
The RBI, in collaboration with the central government, manages all decisions regarding currency issuance and design changes. Any modifications to banknotes undergo multiple stages of review, including consultation with financial experts and government approval. The central bank’s latest statement affirms that no such changes are currently under consideration.
Global Currency Trends: Multiple Figures on Banknotes
While India has consistently featured Mahatma Gandhi on its banknotes, several countries showcase multiple historical figures. The United States, for example, prints images of past presidents like George Washington and Abraham Lincoln on its dollar bills, while Japan’s Yen features renowned figures from its history. While discussions on diversifying India’s banknote imagery have occurred in the past, no formal proposals have been pursued.
Clarification on ₹10 and ₹20 Coins
Apart from banknote rumors, concerns regarding the circulation of ₹10 and ₹20 coins have also surfaced. The Ministry of Finance has confirmed that both denominations remain in circulation and continue to be minted. As of December 31, 2024, the total number of ₹10 coins in circulation stands at 79,502 lakh, with a total valuation of ₹7,950 crore. The government has dismissed speculation about withdrawing these coins.
Final Verdict: No Immediate Changes to Indian Currency
With the RBI’s clarification, it is evident that Mahatma Gandhi’s portrait will continue to appear on Indian currency notes. Any potential changes to currency design would require extensive deliberation and official approval.
As misinformation spreads rapidly on social media, the RBI and Ministry of Finance urge citizens to rely on official statements rather than unverified sources. For now, the iconic image of the Father of the Nation remains an integral part of India’s currency.
