Indian Rupee (INR) vs Pakistani Rupee (PKR) – A Look Back Since 1947
Quick Summary:
- A year-wise table showing how INR to PKR has changed since 1947
- Understand why 1 INR was once equal to 1 PKR, and why that’s no longer the case
- A clear comparison of Indian currency vs Pakistani currency from value to economy impact
Table of Contents
Why Compare INR to PKR since 1947 particularly?
In 1947, when India and Pakistan were born out of the same land, something interesting happened their currencies were equal. 1 Indian Rupee was the same as 1 Pakistani Rupee. No one could have even guessed that, decades later, that balance would tilt so sharply.
Today, 1 INR is worth nearly 14 PKR. But how did that shift happen? What choices, crises, and circumstances pulled the two nations in different economic directions? This is more than just a currency tale it’s a reflection of history, policy, and people. And if you’ve ever asked, “How did Indian and Pakistani rupees grow so far apart?” you’re about to find out.
A Brief Flashback: Both the currencies at the start
Right after the partition, India and Pakistan used the same currency value. That means:
1 Indian Rupee = 1 Pakistani Rupee
The base was the British Indian currency system
Pakistan didn’t print its own money immediately. For a few months, Pakistan used Indian currency with a “Government of Pakistan” stamp on it. Later, it introduced the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) officially.
How Has the INR to PKR Rate Changed Since 1947?
Here’s the most interesting part the currency comparison table you came for.
It gives you the details and you can analyze which were the deciding years for this shift. This can be highly interesting too as you can then check the reasons to make your research even stronger (in case you are interested in it).
INR to PKR Historical Exchange Rate Table
Year |
1 INR to PKR |
Notes |
1947 |
1.00 |
Equal at independence |
1950 |
1.10 |
Pakistan introduced its own currency |
1960 |
1.30 |
Trade and political tensions start to grow |
1971 |
1.75 |
War period and economic instability |
1980 |
2.50 |
Higher inflation in Pakistan |
1990 |
3.65 |
Beginning of rapid currency divergence |
2000 |
5.80 |
India liberalizes its economy, strengthens INR |
2010 |
7.25 |
Pakistan faces internal challenges, energy crisis |
2015 |
9.70 |
Sharp fall in PKR value |
2020 |
11.90 |
Steady INR, declining PKR |
2023 |
12.70 |
INR gains strength globally |
2024 |
13.20 |
PKR continues to weaken |
2025 |
13.70 |
(Current date) |
Note: These are historical trends based on market estimates and forex history. Actual rates may vary slightly depending on the source.
So, when someone asks “What is Indian 1 rupee in Pakistan today?”, it’s more than just a number – it reflects the economic journeys of both countries.
Why Did Pakistani Rupee Lose Its Value Against INR?
Several reasons:
1. The Path Each Country Chose Economically
After independence, both India and Pakistan had big dreams. But the way they went about achieving them was very different.
India started focusing on building a diverse economy from agriculture to heavy industries and later, IT and services. Over time, it opened up to the global market, especially after 1991, attracted foreign investment, and strengthened its exports. Slowly and steadily, that added value to the Indian Rupee.
Pakistan, on the other hand, faced frequent political changes and instability. Because of that, it struggled to create long-term economic policies. Instead of building up industries or exports, it often relied on foreign loans and aid. That made the Pakistani economy more vulnerable in the long run.
2. The Debt Trap
This is a big one.
Pakistan has taken loans from the IMF (International Monetary Fund) several times to manage its economic challenges. While that can help temporarily, loans come with interest and conditions. And if the borrowed money isn’t used wisely, like boosting local businesses or creating jobs, it just adds more pressure later.
India also took loans in the past, but since the early ’90s, it made efforts to reduce dependence on borrowing and focused more on growing through production, exports, and foreign investment. That shift helped keep the INR relatively stable while the PKR kept dipping.
3. Inflation Eats Away Value
Inflation means the general rise in prices over time. And if a country constantly faces high inflation, the value of its currency drops. That’s exactly what’s happened in Pakistan.
Prices of basic goods and services have risen sharply over the years in Pakistan. As living costs go up, the rupee’s buying power goes down both within the country and in the global market.
India has had its share of inflation too. But it’s usually been more controlled, especially in recent decades. That’s why the Indian Rupee hasn’t lost value at the same pace.
Indian Currency vs Pakistani Currency – What’s the Difference?
Aspect | Indian Currency | Pakistani Currency |
Symbol | ₹ (INR) | ₨ or Rs (PKR) |
Authority | RBI (India) | SBP (Pakistan) |
Global Rank | Higher | Lower |
Stability | More stable | Volatile |
Forex Reserves | Strong | Low |
Real-Life Value of INR in PKR Today
Let’s say you’re curious about daily life comparisons or cross-border purchasing power.
- Indian 1 rupee in Pakistan ≈ 13.70 PKR
- Indian 100 rupee in Pakistan ≈ 1,370 PKR
- Indian 1000 rupee in Pakistan ≈ 13,700 PKR
- Indian 2000 rupee in Pakistan ≈ 27,400 PKR
- Indian 10,000 rupee in Pakistan ≈ 137,000 PKR
Keep in mind: these are approximate values, and currency exchange always varies slightly based on where you convert.
Where Laxmii Forex Helps You in Foreign Exchange
Laxmii Forex makes currency exchange easy, safe, and fast. Whether you want to exchange INR to PKR or any other currency, they offer:
- Live and competitive rates
- No hidden charges
- Doorstep delivery options
- Support for individuals and businesses
Choosing a reliable forex partner is key when dealing with currencies that fluctuate often.
FAQs
It started at 1:1 in 1947 and has now grown to about 13.70 PKR per 1 INR due to economic and inflation differences.
India’s stable economy, stronger exports, and better forex reserves keep INR stronger.
The difference lies in their value, purchasing power, and stability. INR is more stable globally, while PKR is more volatile.
Approximately 1,370 PKR today. Always check live rates before exchanging.
About 13,700 PKR – this varies slightly depending on forex providers.
No, it’s dynamic and changes daily based on market conditions.
You can check live rates and get great deals at by contacting Laxmii Forex, with transparent pricing and easy service.