The Indian Rupee (INR) is the official currency of the Republic of India. It is abbreviated as "₹" and is regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The Indian Rupee is subdivided into 100 smaller units called paise.
The history of the Indian Rupee dates back to ancient times, with its origins traced to the Silver Punch Mark Coinage used during the 6th century BCE. Over the centuries, various empires and dynasties issued their own coins and currencies, leading to a diverse monetary system across the Indian subcontinent.
During British colonial rule, the Indian Rupee was standardized and became the official currency of British India. In 1950, after India gained independence, the Indian Rupee continued to be used as the national currency. The Reserve Bank of India, established in 1935, became the sole authority responsible for issuing and regulating currency in independent India.
The Indian Rupee is issued in various denominations of banknotes and coins. Banknotes are available in denominations of ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹200, ₹500, and ₹2000. Coins are minted in denominations of 50 paise, ₹1, ₹2, ₹5, and ₹10.
The Indian Rupee plays a crucial role in the Indian economy and is widely accepted as a medium of exchange for goods and services. It is also used as a reserve currency by various countries and is traded actively in the foreign exchange markets.
The value of the Indian Rupee relative to other currencies is determined by various factors, including inflation, interest rates, trade balances, and geopolitical events. The RBI actively manages the exchange rate through monetary policy interventions to ensure stability and promote economic growth.
Despite fluctuations in value, the Indian Rupee remains an integral part of the nation's identity and heritage. It symbolizes the economic progress and cultural richness of India, reflecting the country's diverse history and vibrant traditions.