The Reserve Bank is set to soon introduce varnished currency notes of Rs 100 denomination on a field trial basis. The plan was stated by the central bank in its annual report for 2018-19.
The RBI in its 2018-19 annual report further added that “Aiding Visually Impaired in Identification of Denomination of Banknote,” is also in its Agenda for 2019-20. The Reserve Bank will develop a mechanism/device for aiding the visually impaired in the identification of denomination of banknotes.
“Indian banknotes have several features which enable the visually impaired (colour blind, partially sighted and blind people) to identify them, viz., intaglio printing and tactile mark, variable banknote size, large numerals, variable colour, monochromatic hues and patterns. Once the old series banknotes are withdrawn from circulation, identification of the new series banknotes will automatically become easy for the visually impaired.”
“As indicated in the Statement on Developmental and Regulatory Policies of June 6, 2018, the Reserve Bank has embarked upon exploring alternative technological solutions to help the visually impaired in identifying the denomination of banknotes,” the report read.
