The Indian Express editorial argues that plastic banknotes should not be replaced or withdrawn on an arbitrary timetable. It says the lifespan of a note substrate should be judged by actual usage, durability, and lifecycle cost rather than by symbolism or haste.
Why the issue matters for UPSC
The subject maps to GS3 because it combines public finance, material choice, and environmental sustainability. It also fits broader UPSC themes of policy design, lifecycle efficiency, and sustainable governance.
Key policy idea
The core argument is simple: note material should be selected for durability and system efficiency, not for optics. In currency management, a longer-life substrate can reduce replacement pressure if its cost and environmental footprint are justified.
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