Will the Father of the Nation’s image be taken off the currency notes?
Recently such a false rumor was widespread over the social media that the image of Mahatma Gandhi is being removed from Indian currency notes. The news was so prevalent that it was believed by many. But now the air is clear as the RBI has made clarifications in this context.
RBI’s Official Statement
The Reserve Bank of India categorically stated that the image of Gandhiji would not be removed from currency notes. No such proposal has been made, nor has any decision been taken. These reports are entirely untrue and misleading, as they are without any official basis.
How did the rumor start?
Actually, IIT Delhi were sent some sample designs for research on watermarks. These sample designs show various different options in which images can be placed on a note and were interpreted wrongly and placed on social media. People interpreted these designs as if they were real currency notes and ended up in a rumor.
Is there a major modification coming up in currency notes?
Many posts mentioned that the new notes would feature the images of Rabindranath Tagore or Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. However, both the RBI and the government have made it clear that there is no such proposal. At present, there is no possibility of removing Gandhiji’s picture or replacing it with someone else’s.
Will there be an image on the digital rupee (e-Rupee)?
Digital rupee is a currency that is electronic and not in paper form. As such, it cannot be “printed” with any image or design on it. It is based purely on a digital record for carrying out transactions.
When did Gandhiji’s image come on notes?
In the early years of independence, the notes bore symbols like the Ashoka Pillar on them. Gandhiji’s image appeared on Indian currency notes for the first time in 1969. This feature continues to be consistent in the subsequent series that followed from 1987 onward. Thus, Gandhiji has become the hallmark of Indian currency.
How to remain rumor-free?
Avoid all the suspicious posts or messages. Always verify such information from RBI’s official website and government announcements or any reliable news source. Fake texts or posts that request you to forward them should set off alarm bells.
Conclusion
There is no doubt whatsoever that Mahatma Gandhi’s image from Indian currency notes is not going to be removed. There need no longer be concerns regarding rumors about concerns that might arise until there is an official announcement by the RBI. Always use reliable sources for accurate information.
