₹500 notes to be stopped in ATMs from March 2026? Fact-checking the viral claim
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Since demonetisation, various rumours about the Indian currency have often been flying on social media. These days, once again, the market of discussions about the Rs 500 note is hot. It is being claimed on social media that from March 2026, ATMs will stop getting Rs 500 notes. This news has created a state of suspicion among the general public.
After all, how much truth is there in this claim and is the government really going to take such a step? Let's know what the government's fact check agency has to say on this.
What is the whole matter?
In fact, the rumor started with an old government advice misinterpreted. The government had last year issued a directive to banks aimed at promoting digital transactions and the circulation of small notes. It was said that the number of small notes like 100 and 200 rupees in the ATMs should be increased so that people do not have the problem of open money. Banks also implemented this, but it did not mean that Rs 500 notes were being discontinued or withdrawn from ATMs.
Taking cognisance of this claim going viral on social media, the government's fact-check agency, PIB, has flatly rejected it. The PIB has clarified that the government has no plans to discontinue the Rs 500 note. The talk of removing these notes from ATMs is completely baseless and fake. The Rs 500 notes are fully 'legal tender' and will continue to be used as before.
Don't pay attention to rumors
The government has appealed to the common people not to trust such unsubstantiated and misleading reports circulating on social media. Before forwarding any information, make sure to confirm it with official government sources.
It is noteworthy that this is not the first time that such a rumour has been spread about Rs 500 notes. Earlier in June, similar claims were made that there would be demonetisation in March 2026, which the government had termed as 'fake news' at that time. This is just an attempt to mislead people