The Central government on Thursday took some new decisions relating to operational aspects of the demonetization of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 8. As announced earlier, there will be no over-the-counter exchange of the old tender after midnight of November 24. This date has not been extended as some quarters were expecting.
A government notification said this was because it was observed that over-the-counter exchange of old currency notes “has shown a declining trend”. “It has further been felt that people may be encouraged and facilitated to deposit their old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes in their bank accounts,” it said, adding that it would also encourage “unbanked” people to open new accounts.
There are, however, some new directions, including new exemptions wherein payment can be made through old Rs 500 notes till December 15, 2016.
These are:
1. Payment of School fees up to Rs 2000 per student in Central Government, State Government, Municipality and local body schools.
2. Payment of fees in Central or State Government colleges
3. Payments towards prepaid mobile top-up to a limit of Rs 500 per top-up;
4. Purchase from Consumer Cooperative Stores, but limited to Rs 5000 at a time
5. Payment of current and arrear dues for water and electricity bill for individuals and households
6. Payment at toll plazas
It has also been decided that foreign citizens will be permitted to exchange foreign currency up to Rs 5000 per week and the entry to this effect being made in their passports.