The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has introduced a cost-effective travel insurance plan that offers a cover of up to Rs 10 lakh for a premium of just 45 paise per passenger. This low-cost insurance is part of IRCTC’s initiative to provide increased safety and support to train travelers in case of unforeseen incidents. However, it is available exclusively to Indian citizens booking tickets online via IRCTC’s e-ticket platform.
Who Can Avail of This Insurance?
This insurance plan is strictly for Indian nationals who book their train tickets through IRCTC’s e-ticketing platform. Here’s who can benefit and who is excluded:
- Eligible Passengers: Only Indian citizens booking e-tickets are eligible for this insurance cover. Passengers must opt for it at the time of booking, and once selected, it applies to all travelers listed on the same PNR.
- Exclusions: This cover is not available for foreign nationals or passengers who book through agents or travel agencies. Children under five years of age, who do not occupy a reserved seat, are also excluded. However, children aged 5-11 will receive coverage regardless of whether they have a reserved seat.
Coverage Details: Benefits and Sum Insured
This IRCTC travel insurance policy offers financial protection under different categories. Here’s a breakdown of the coverage offered:
- Accidental Death: In case of accidental death during the journey, the nominee will receive the full insurance amount of Rs 10 lakh.
- Permanent Total Disability: If a passenger suffers a permanent total disability due to an accident, they will receive 100% of the sum assured, which is up to Rs 10 lakh.
- Permanent Partial Disability: For a partial disability, 75% of the sum insured, amounting to Rs 7.5 lakh, will be provided.
- Hospitalization Expenses: Up to Rs 2 lakh is covered for hospitalization costs arising from an injury during the journey.
- Transfer of Dead Body: In the unfortunate event of a death, Rs 10,000 is provided to facilitate the transfer of the deceased’s body.
How to Claim the Insurance
After selecting the insurance while booking, passengers will receive confirmation via SMS and email, containing details like policy number. For any claim, travelers are advised to update the nominee information directly on the insurance company’s website after booking the ticket. This ensures that the sum insured reaches the intended beneficiary. In cases where no nominee is listed, the claim will be settled in favor of the passenger’s legal heirs.
It is important to note that this insurance only applies to confirmed and RAC ticket holders. This comprehensive cover, available at a minimal premium, aims to safeguard passengers against unexpected events and provide peace of mind while traveling.