A viral WhatsApp message claimed ATMs will stop dispensing ₹500 notes from September.
The government has called this message false and misleading.
PIB Fact Check confirmed that no such directive has been iss
ued by the RBI.
₹500 notes remain legal tender and are still the most used denomination in
India.
RBI data shows ₹500 notes make up over 86% of the total value in circulation.
What RBI actually wants: better availability of smaller notes like ₹100 and ₹200.
By Sept 30, 75% of ATMs must have ₹100 or ₹200 notes; this rises to 90% by March
2026.
Citizens are urged to verify such claims using RBI’s website or PIB Fact Check.