The polymer notes last longer than paper banknotes thereby reducing processing, replacement costs and environmental impact. The polymer banknotes are now in circulation alongside the paper banknotes. Following the issue of polymer banknotes on 22 August 2013, a total value of Rs761.8 million was in circulation by 31 December 2013.
This is necessary in order to maintain and further strengthen confidence in the policy framework of the euro area and to establish fiscal positions in all countries that allow automatic stabilisers to operate efficiently without endangering sound fiscal positions in the longer term.