Demonetization marks a significant turning point in the history of the Indian economy. It served as a powerful message to those engaged in illegal practices such as tax evasion and money laundering, instilling a sense of fear and caution. On November 8, 2016, the Indian government announced that ₹500 and ₹1,000 currency notes would cease to be legal tender from midnight onwards. These denominations made up around 86% of the total currency in circulation by value. Citizens were allowed to deposit or exchange these notes until December 31, 2016, for newly introduced ₹500 and ₹2,000 notes. The primary objectives of this move were to eliminate counterfeit currency, reduce tax evasion, combat inflation, eradicate black money and terror financing, and encourage the transition toward a digital, cashless economy.