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The delay in recalibration of cash vending machines to dispense Rs 200 notes is understood to be one of the reasons for the currency shortage in some parts of the country.
Following the introduction of Rs 200 notes by the RBI, it was decided that recalibration of ATMs (automated teller machines) for new notes would be done at a faster pace, sources said, adding the drive was soon started but got delayed in some parts of the country.
Meanwhile, the printing of Rs 2,000 notes has also been halted for the past few days.
Earlier in the day, Economic Affairs Secretary SC Garg said:
"What was required we have printed, and put it in the system. Besides, lower denomination currency notes are in over-supply," he added.
Commenting on this, cash logistics company SIS Prosgur Managing Director Rituraj Sinha said cash withdrawal from ATMs has witnessed continuous escalation post demonetisation.
Asked by when the situation would become normal, Garg said the situation is not out of control and it is very much normal.
"The situation will stabilise once demand normalises... supply of currency will also reduce. So it is function of demand and supply," he said.
On being asked if polls in some states are the reason for the shortage, Garg said elections are only happening in Karnataka and this is beyond that state.
"On a given day, one percent of the ATMs are usually out of order. And it could be a local management issue not a countrywide phenomena," he added.
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