Rise in Counterfeit Currency Detected, Led by Rs 500 and Rs 20 Notes: RBI Report

The Reserve Bank of India reports a 5.7% increase in counterfeit currency detection in FY26, primarily involving Rs 500 and Rs 20 denominations. A total of 2,29,746 fake notes were identified, with substantial hikes in Rs 500 fakes and Rs 20 notes substantially rising, according to the RBI's annual report.

The Reserve Bank of India observed a 5.7% rise in counterfeit currency detection for the financial year 2025-26, primarily involving Rs 500 and Rs 20 notes. According to the RBI's annual report, the total number of fake notes identified reached 2,29,746, compared to 2,17,396 in the previous year.

Significantly, counterfeit Rs 500 notes saw a surge of 20.5%, reaching 1,41,907 from 1,17,722 detected last year. Additionally, Rs 20 notes experienced a sharp increase of 47.4%, amounting to 373 pieces, up from 253. Conversely, counterfeit notes of Rs 200, Rs 100, and Rs 2,000 decreased from their previous numbers. Most detections were made by banks other than the RBI, with 2,24,334 fake notes found at these institutions.

In contrast, the disposal of soiled banknotes saw a steep drop of 28.6%, totaling 1.72 lakh in 2025-26. Despite a decrease, Rs 500 banknote disposals remained the highest among denominations.