Demonetization is the withdrawal of certain currency denominations from circulation, as announced by the Indian government on November 8, 2016, which rendered the Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 notes illegal tender. The primary causes include combating black money, corruption, and counterfeit currency, while its effects include temporary liquidity shortages and inflation, along with potential long-term benefits such as increased digitization and reduced funding for illicit activities. While demonetization may slow economic growth in the short to medium term, its advantages are expected to outweigh disadvantages in the long run.