Industry body says polymer currency highlights the role of advanced plastics in sustainability, innovation, and the circular economy ahead of HIPLEX 2026.
The Telangana and Andhra Plastics Manufacturers Association (TAAPMA), organiser of HIPLEX 2026, welcomed the Government of India’s decision to introduce ₹10 and ₹20 polymer (plastic) banknotes, describing it as a significant recognition of the role that advanced polymer technology can play in building a more sustainable and resource-efficient India.
Polymer banknotes, already successfully adopted by over 40 countries including Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Singapore and Vietnam, are known for their superior durability, resistance to moisture, enhanced security features and longer circulation life compared to conventional paper currency.
According to industry experts, polymer notes last four to five times longer than paper notes, reducing replacement costs, conserving natural resources and lowering the environmental footprint associated with currency printing.
Welcoming the move, Mr. Narendra Baldwa, President, TAAPMA, said: The decision to introduce polymer banknotes marks a significant milestone for India’s plastics and polymer industry. It demonstrates that when plastics are scientifically designed and responsibly used, they become part of the solution rather than the problem. Polymer technology has transformed sectors such as healthcare, food safety, automobiles and aerospace. Currency is another area where advanced plastics can deliver durability, security and sustainability.
He added that the announcement also helps change the public narrative around plastics.
The issue is not plastics, but plastic waste. Responsible use, scientific recycling and circular economy practices can unlock tremendous environmental and economic value.”
Mr. Meela Jayadev, Convener, HIPLEX 2026, said the timing of the announcement reinforces the relevance of this year’s exhibition.
HIPLEX 2026 is all about demonstrating how innovation is redefining the plastics industry. Visitors will witness technologies that convert discarded plastics into high-value products. The introduction of polymer currency further reinforces how advanced plastics are becoming indispensable in modern society.
He said one of the major attractions at HIPLEX 2026 will be the Dedicated Recycling Pavilion, where visitors can witness the complete journey of plastic from waste to wealth.
One of the highlights will demonstrate how just 25 discarded PET bottles can be transformed into a wearable T-shirt. The pavilion will also showcase plastic roads, railway sleepers, bricks, benches, outdoor furniture, bus shelters and even houses made using recycled plastics. It is a powerful demonstration that today’s waste can become tomorrow’s valuable resource.”
Mr. Anil Reddy Vennam, Senior Vice President of the All India Plastics Manufacturers’ Association (AIPMA), said polymer banknotes represent the growing role of plastics in sustainable development.
Around the world, advanced polymers are replacing traditional materials because they offer better performance with lower lifecycle costs. Polymer banknotes consume fewer resources over their lifetime because they remain in circulation much longer than conventional notes. This is another excellent example of innovation supporting sustainability.”
He noted that the plastics industry is investing heavily in recyclable materials, bio-based polymers, energy-efficient manufacturing and advanced recycling technologies.
The future belongs to smart plastics, recyclable plastics and circular manufacturing. HIPLEX 2026 will showcase hundreds of such innovations from India and across the globe, added Srinivas Bathula, another office bearer of TAAPMA
TAAPMA also observed that India’s plastics industry has evolved far beyond conventional manufacturing and today plays a critical role in healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, renewable energy, transportation, packaging, electronics and defence.
The Association believes the introduction of polymer currency will encourage greater awareness about the value of advanced materials and promote scientific discussions on sustainable plastics.
HIPLEX 2026, India’s third-largest plastics industry exhibition, will be held from August 7 to 10, 2026, at HITEX Exhibition Centre, Hyderabad.