The authorities of India are going to legalize bitcoin ( Bitcoin ) and other crypto-currencies. This is reported by CNBC India.

 Last week, the government set up an interdisciplinary committee to study virtual currencies - in view of concerns over the growth of their popularity in India. Its activities will be regulated by the Ministry of Finance.

According to CNBC, the committee will consider the possibility of legalizing bitcoin and using it as an official means of payment. In addition, the experts will discuss the new regulatory rules that will come into force if the initiative is approved. These measures will have to protect the rights of consumers, as well as to counteract the receipt of illegal proceeds.

The Reserve Bank of India, in turn, will consider the introduction of commissions for bitcoin-transactions.
For all operations with the crypto currency will be levied tax.

It is expected that the decision on the legal status of bitcoin will be taken on May 15-20.

Russia also made the first attempt to legalize cryptocurrency 2018. Finance Minister Alexei Moiseyev expressed his hope that in 2018 bitcoin will be recognized as a legitimate financial instrument. He noted that this step will help fight money laundering.

As of 19:28 GMT, bitcoin is trading at around $ 1228.39 (+ 1.59%).