What is the reason behind the withdrawal of Rs 2,000 denomination banknotes?
The introduction of the Rs 2000 denomination banknote in November 2016 was authorized under Section 24(1) of the RBI Act, 1934. It was primarily intended to quickly meet the currency demand of the economy after the withdrawal of the legal tender status of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 banknotes in circulation at that time. Following fulfilling this objective and the availability of an adequate quantity of banknotes in other denominations, the printing of Rs 2,000 banknotes ceased in 2018-19.
Most of the Rs 2,000 denomination notes were issued prior to March 2017 and have now reached their estimated lifespan of 4-5 years. Additionally, it has been observed that this particular denomination is not commonly used for day-to-day transactions.
Considering these factors and in accordance with the “Clean Note Policy” of the Reserve Bank of India, the decision has been made to withdraw the Rs 2000 denomination banknotes from circulation.
What is meant by Clean Note Policy?
The policy implemented by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) aims to ensure that members of the public have access to high-quality banknotes.
Does the legal tender status of Rs 2,000 banknotes still remain in effect?
Indeed, the Rs 2,000 banknote will retain its legal tender status, meaning it can be used as a valid form of payment in transactions.
Are Rs 2,000 banknotes still valid and accepted for regular transactions?
Certainly! Public members can use Rs 2000 banknotes for their transactions and accept them as payment. However, it is strongly recommended that they deposit and/or exchange these banknotes on or before September 30, 2023.
What is the recommended course of action for the general public regarding the Rs 2,000 denomination banknotes they possess?
Public members are encouraged to visit bank branches to deposit and/or exchange their Rs 2,000 banknotes. All banks will offer the service of depositing funds into accounts and exchanging them for Rs 2,000 banknotes until September 30, 2023. The option for exchange will also be available at the 19 Regional Offices (ROs) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Is there a limit on the amount of Rs 2,000 banknotes that can be deposited into a bank account?
There are no restrictions on depositing funds into bank accounts as long as the depositor complies with the existing Know Your Customer (KYC) norms and other relevant statutory/regulatory requirements.
Is there a specific limit on the amount of Rs 2,000 banknotes that can be exchanged?
Yes, there is a limit of Rs 20,000 at a time for the public who wants to exchange Rs 2000 banknotes.
Is it possible to exchange Rs 2,000 banknotes through Business Correspondents (BCs)?
Account holders can exchange Rs 2,000 banknotes through Business Correspondents (BCs) up to a daily limit of Rs 4,000.
Starting from which date will the currency exchange facility be made available?
In order to allow banks to make necessary preparations, the general public is kindly requested to visit bank branches or the Reserve Bank of India’s Regional Offices (ROs) starting from May 23, 2023.
Is it a requirement to be a bank customer in order to exchange Rs 2,000 banknotes at its branches?
Individuals who do not have a bank account can also exchange Rs 2,000 banknotes at any bank branch, with a maximum limit of ₹20,000.
What options are available for individuals who require more than Rs 20,000 in cash for business or other purposes?
You can make deposits into the accounts without any restrictions. The Rs 2000 banknotes can be easily deposited into bank accounts, and once deposited, you can withdraw cash as per your requirements using these funds.
Is there a fee associated with the currency exchange service?
No, one does not have to pay any fee for the exchange facility.
Are there any specific provisions or arrangements in place to facilitate the exchange and deposit of currency for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and similar individuals?
Banks have received instructions to implement specific measures in order to assist senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, and others who wish to exchange/deposit Rs 2,000 banknotes.
What options are available if someone is unable to deposit/exchange a ₹2000 banknote immediately?
To ensure a smooth and convenient process for the public, a generous period of over four months has been provided for the deposit and exchange of Rs 2,000 banknotes. Public members are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this facility at their convenience within the designated time frame.
What are the consequences if a bank declines to exchange/accept the deposit of Rs 2,000 banknotes?
In the event of a service deficiency, individuals with complaints or grievances can initially approach the respective bank. If the bank fails to respond within 30 days of lodging the complaint, or if the complainant is unsatisfied with the response/resolution provided, they can lodge a complaint under the RB-IOS(Reserve Bank – Integrated Ombudsman Scheme), 2021. This can be done through the Complaint Management System portal of the RBI.