Security Features of New Indian Currency: Enhanced Ink Technology and Advanced Printing Techniques

After the demonetization in November 2016, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) introduced new Indian currency notes, equipped with sophisticated security features. These features are designed to enhance the security and durability of the notes, deterring counterfeiters and ensuring public trust. Central to these features is the use of advanced ink technologies, particularly security ink.

Types of Ink Used in New Indian Currency

The primary ink used in the new Indian currency notes is security ink. This ink includes several types of advanced features that change appearance when viewed from different angles. Let's delve deeper into the types of ink and their applications:

Optically Variable Ink (OVI)

Optically Variable Ink (OVI) is a key component in the security features of the new currency. Specifically used on 200 and 500 denomination notes, OVI changes color when tilted. This optical property makes it challenging for counterfeiters to replicate, as legitimate notes change their hue subtly and precisely when viewed from different angles.

Fluorescent Ink

Fluorescent ink is another important feature used in the printing of these notes. Special features on the notes are printed using fluorescent ink, which becomes visible under ultraviolet (UV) light. This technique ensures that even UV lights can detect certain aspects of the note, enhancing security.

Microprinting

Microprinting refers to small text that is printed using specialized ink. This tiny text is included in various places on the note to prevent counterfeiting. The use of microprinting, which is difficult to replicate accurately, adds an additional layer of security. While the human eye can't easily detect microprinting, counterfeiters find it nearly impossible to replicate its precise detailing.

Security Ink for Banknote Printing

Security ink, particularly for banknotes, must be highly resistant to frequent handling. The ink used for the new Indian currency is imported from SICPA, a renowned Swiss company that supplies security ink to many countries. These inks need to meet stringent standards for durability, security, and environmental safety, as they are exposed to frequent handling by the public.

Features of Security Ink

Security inks are categorized into public, embedded, and machine-readable features. These features are vital for identifying and validating banknotes:

Public Features

Public features allow all users to authenticate notes using their eyesight and touch. These features include watermarks, security threads, and specific designs that are easily visible to the naked eye.

Embedded Features

Embedded features are designed for shopkeepers and cash-handling professionals, who can use aided devices such as UV lights and magnifiers to detect certain aspects of the note. These features are crucial for merchants to verify the authenticity of the currency quickly and efficiently.

Machine-Readable Features

Machine-readable features are essential for automated systems, such as cash processing machines. These features allow sensors and automated systems to detect and process banknotes accurately. This ensures smooth transactions and reduces the likelihood of counterfeit notes being included in cash deposits.

Health Safety and Environmental Regulations

As with all products destined for public use, banknote inks must comply with health safety and environmental regulations. These regulations ensure that not only is the ink safe for the public to handle but that the printing process itself does not have a negative impact on the environment. This is crucial for maintaining public trust in the currency and for preventing any potential harm that could arise from the ink.

Overall, the use of advanced ink technologies and printing techniques in the new Indian currency has significantly enhanced its security and durability. Through the collaboration with companies like SICPA, the RBI continues to implement cutting-edge solutions to protect the value and integrity of the currency, ensuring a safer financial system for all.