For the first time in Bhutan’s currency history, ngultrum banknotes can be confidently identified by touch alone. With the introduction of new polymer notes featuring prominent tactile features and Braille markings, persons with visual impairment can now identify money by touch, making currency not just functional, but truly inclusive.
The Royal Monetary Authority introduced the new polymer ngultrum banknotes into public circulation on 1st of this month.
While the notes were officially launched in November last year, a key feature gaining attention now is their accessibility.
Unlike earlier series, the new banknotes feature prominent tactile emboss markings in distinct geometric shapes.
These are located on the bottom right corner of the reverse side of each note, making them easier to identify by touch.
Tshering Tenzin said, “This is Nu 100. How we can identify it is that it has a triangle-shaped tactile feature. Similarly, this Nu 500 note also has a Braille feature in an L-shape, through which it can be identified.”
RMA said the location of the tactile emboss feature was deliberately chosen to ensure the features are easy to locate.
While previous banknotes included raised intaglio printing, a certain print, RMA explained that these features often wore off over time due to the cotton-based paper material.
The new polymer notes are more durable, ensuring the tactile features remain intact throughout circulation
Tshering Tenzin added that “There are some features to identify the money in the old notes, but we cannot feel them properly by touch. So, we often fail to identify the note. However, in the new notes, the Braille dots are very prominent.”
Amrit Bahadur Subba said that “When using the old notes, we had to seek help from people nearby and keep the money separately. Even now, the old notes are mostly used in the market, so even if we use the new notes, we may receive change in old notes. It would be helpful for us if other denominations are also introduced in the new notes.”
While the tactile features are currently limited to the Nu 100, 500 and 1,000 denominations, RMA said similar accessibility features for lower denominations such as Nu 5, 10, 20 and 50 may be considered in future banknote designs.
During the transition period, all existing ngultrum banknotes will remain legal tender and continue to circulate alongside the new series.
RMA has also begun coordinating with relevant stakeholders to ensure persons with visual impairment are made aware of the new tactile features.
As of 2023, Bhutan has around 3,400 persons with visual impairment.