Dhaka, Feb 19 (V7N) – In celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr, Bangladesh Bank will issue new currency notes of 5, 20, and 50 taka on March 19, adorned with the image of the nation’s founding leader, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The notes will bear the signature of the resigned Governor, Abdur Rouf Talukder.

According to Bangladesh Bank spokesperson and Executive Director Arif Hossain Khan, these new notes will be released ahead of the festive occasion. However, the notes issued during the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha will not feature Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s image.

Rationale Behind New Issuance

Khan explained that the central bank currently possesses a significant stock of previously printed notes and that discontinuing them would result in considerable financial waste. To avoid such loss, only the previously printed notes will be circulated for Eid-ul-Fitr, while new designs are expected to be released by April or May.

Sources indicate that Bangladesh Bank currently holds approximately 20,000 crore taka in new notes featuring Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, with plans to gradually introduce these into the market.

Current Currency Landscape

Bangladesh’s currency system features ten paper notes, including 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 taka. All paper notes from 2 taka to 1000 taka currently display Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's image, with some showcasing his portrait on both sides. Additionally, metal coins also bear his likeness.

Reports suggest that there is a proposal to change the design of the notes printed during the Sheikh Hasina government, indicating a potential shift away from featuring Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in future currency designs.

The issuance of new notes during Eid-ul-Fitr is a long-standing tradition in Bangladesh, aimed at facilitating the festive spirit and promoting the use of fresh currency in transactions during the holiday season.

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