India Seeks Global Partners for New Banknote Material

Bharatiya Reserve Bank Note Mudran Private Limited (BRBNMPL), a subsidiary of the Reserve Bank of India, has initiated a global search for suppliers of specialized polymer substrate sheets. These sheets are intended for the printing of Indian banknotes and must incorporate sophisticated security features.

The Expression of Interest specifies a requirement for Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP)-based polymer substrate, designed for high-security printing. The material is expected to include features such as a clear window with a portrait, metallic numeral, pseudo thread, shadow image, and iridescent pattern.

Strict national security clauses are attached to the tender. Bidders must ensure their operations in China or Pakistan are separated from any India-related business. Furthermore, they cannot source raw materials from these countries or employ individuals with prior experience in China or Pakistan.

Entities from countries sharing a land border with India must be registered with the DPIIT's Registration Committee. BRBNMPL indicated that this is an immediate requirement, with larger procurements anticipated following successful field trials of the substrate.

To qualify, bidders must demonstrate at least three years of experience supplying similar polymer substrates to central banks or security printing organizations. They must also offer a minimum quantity of 20,400 reams and provide sample sheets for testing, along with proof of financial stability and security clearance eligibility. The polymer notes are anticipated to be introduced initially for lower denominations, possibly Rs 10 and Rs 20.