RBI Mandates Banks to Ensure ATMs Carry More ₹100, ₹200 Notes

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced new regulations requiring banks and White Label ATM Operators (WLAOs) to ensure better public access to ₹100 and ₹200 denomination notes. This move seeks to increase the circulation of frequently used banknotes and must be implemented in a phased manner.

Banks and WLAOs to Ensure Dispensation of Lower Denomination Notes

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Monday asked banks to ensure that ATMs dispense ₹100 or ₹200 denomination notes to enhance the availability of these currency notes to the public. Banks and White Label ATM Operators (WLAOs) have to implement the direction in a phased manner.

“As part of an endeavour towards enhancing public access to frequently used denominations of banknotes, it has been decided that all banks and White Label ATM Operators (WLAOs) shall ensure that their ATMs dispense ₹100 and ₹200 denomination banknotes on a regular basis…,” the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said in a circular.

Implementation Deadlines Set for 2025 and 2026

According to the circular, by September 30, 2025, 75% of all ATMs (Automated Teller Machines) shall dispense either ₹100 or ₹200 denomination banknotes from at least one cassette.

Furthermore, the RBI circular outlines that by 2026, 90% of all ATMs shall dispense either ₹100 or ₹200 denomination banknotes from at least one cassette. These targets set a structured timeline for banks and WLAOs to systematically upgrade and configure their ATM networks to comply with the mandate.

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Conclusion

The Reserve Bank of India’s new directive focuses on improving public convenience by ensuring easier access to ₹100 and ₹200 banknotes through ATMs. With defined deadlines, banks and WLAOs are expected to progressively align their ATM infrastructure to comply with the mandate.

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