# Government approves field trials of polymer ₹10 and ₹20 notes

2026-08-13T03:35:40+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 3 independent outlets

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman told the Rajya Sabha on August 11 that the government has approved the Reserve Bank of India’s proposal to introduce one billion polymer banknotes each of ₹10 and ₹20 for field trials. The plastic notes will be issued alongside existing paper currency, not replace it. The procurement process is at an initial stage, so no launch timeline can be given yet, Sitharaman said. RBI governor Sanjay Malhotra had earlier indicated a rollout at the start of the next fiscal year if the pilot succeeds. The central bank floated a global expression of interest for polymer substrate in July.

## Coverage

- thehindubusinessline.com <https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/plastic-notes-to-be-introduced-along-with-paper-currency-no-time-frame-on-launch-yet-govt/article71332203.ece>
- livemint.com <https://www.livemint.com/money/personal-finance/when-will-govt-issue-plastic-10-and-20-bank-notes-fm-nirmala-sitharaman-responds-to-query-in-rajya-sabha-11786582958602.html>
- rediff.com <https://www.rediff.com/business/report/india-to-introduce-polymer-banknotes-for-rs-10-rs-20-inflation-remains-below-rbi-target/20260811.htm>

Tags: currency, field trials, Finance Ministry, Nirmala Sitharaman, polymer banknotes, RBI
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