Hyderabad, July 30: The Telangana and Andhra Plastics Manufacturers Association (TAAPMA), organiser of HIPLEX 2026, has welcomed the Government of India’s decision to introduce ₹10 and ₹20 polymer banknotes, describing it as a major milestone in promoting sustainable plastics, advanced polymer technology and the circular economy.
The association said the move recognises the growing role of scientifically designed polymers in delivering durable, secure and environmentally sustainable solutions.
Polymer banknotes have already been adopted by more than 40 countries, including Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Singapore and Vietnam. Compared to conventional paper currency, they offer greater durability, moisture resistance, enhanced security features and a significantly longer circulation life.
Industry experts noted that polymer notes typically last four to five times longer than paper notes, reducing replacement costs, conserving natural resources and lowering the environmental impact associated with currency printing.
Welcoming the announcement, Narendra Baldwa, President of TAAPMA, said the introduction of polymer banknotes marks an important milestone for India’s plastics and polymer industry.
“The decision demonstrates that when plastics are scientifically designed and responsibly used, they become part of the solution rather than the problem. Polymer technology has already transformed healthcare, food safety, automobiles and aerospace. Currency is another sector where advanced plastics can deliver durability, security and sustainability,” he said.
He added that the move also helps reshape public perception about plastics.
“The issue is not plastics, but plastic waste. Responsible use, scientific recycling and circular economy practices can unlock tremendous environmental and economic value,” Baldwa said.
Meela Jayadev, Convener of HIPLEX 2026, said the government’s decision reinforces the theme of this year’s exhibition.
“HIPLEX 2026 will demonstrate how innovation is transforming the plastics industry. Visitors will see technologies that convert discarded plastics into high-value products. The introduction of polymer currency further highlights the growing importance of advanced plastics in modern society,” he said.
A major attraction at the exhibition will be the Dedicated Recycling Pavilion, showcasing the complete journey of plastics from waste to wealth. Demonstrations will include how 25 discarded PET bottles can be converted into a wearable T-shirt, along with products such as plastic roads, railway sleepers, benches, bricks, outdoor furniture, bus shelters and even houses made from recycled plastics.
Anil Reddy Vennam, Senior Vice President of the All India Plastics Manufacturers’ Association (AIPMA), said polymer banknotes are another example of innovation supporting sustainability.
“Advanced polymers are replacing traditional materials because they offer better performance with lower lifecycle costs. Polymer banknotes consume fewer resources over their lifetime as they remain in circulation much longer than conventional notes,” he said.
He added that the plastics industry is making significant investments in recyclable materials, bio-based polymers, energy-efficient manufacturing and advanced recycling technologies.
TAAPMA office-bearer Srinivas Bathula said the future lies in smart plastics, recyclable materials and circular manufacturing, all of which will be showcased at HIPLEX 2026.
The association also noted that India’s plastics industry today plays a key role in healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, renewable energy, transportation, packaging, electronics and defence. It believes the introduction of polymer currency will encourage wider awareness about advanced materials and promote informed discussions on sustainable plastics.
HIPLEX 2026, India’s third-largest plastics industry exhibition, will be held from August 7 to 10, 2026, at the HITEX Exhibition Centre, Hyderabad.
