Indian Railways is one of the largest railway networks in the world, which is a link that connects various parts of India. The railway network of India plays a major role in the transportation facilities available in India and contributes significantly to the growth and economic development of the country. The Indian Railways have been continuously trying to make significant changes and technological advances that add to the convenience of the passengers.
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What is the travel insurance by IRCTC?
One such feature of the Indian Railway that benefits the passengers is the travel insurance offered by Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). Travel insurance in IRCTC is an optional insurance policy offered to those passengers who book their tickets through the IRCTC online portal. The policy provides financial protection to the passengers against various injuries or risks that occur during the train journey.
How did IRCTC travel insurance come into being?
The necessity of providing insurance coverage to railway passengers was recognized after the train accident in Odisha. In the accident, around 288 people died and over 1000 of people were injured. This incident highlighted the importance of financial security that the passengers should be offered.
IRCTC makes provisions for insurance coverage to travellers when they book online tickets as an optional service, which is done for a small amount. It is important to note that the passengers have to select the option for the insurance protection while booking the tickets. It will not be possible to opt for travel insurance after making the reservation. A nominal amount of Rs. 0.35 has to be paid per passenger to activate the insurance coverage.
Advantages of Travel Insurance by IRCTC
- As per IRCTC travel insurance policy, if the passenger gets injured during the journey which leads to death within 12 months of the accident, the insurance coverage provides 100% of the insured amount. The insurance policy claims that a total of Rs. 10,00,000 will be provided to the claimants in that case.
- In case an injury happens during the journey, which ultimately leads to a permanent, total disability of the passenger, then, according to the travel insurance policy of IRCTC, the insured passenger will be provided an amount of Rs. 10,00,000. However, it should be noted that 100% of the amount will be provided to the insured passengers only under certain conditions mentioned in IRCTC’s policy. The conditions specifically mentioned in the policy provides the details on whether the passenger will be provided the total amount or not.
- If the passenger undergoes an accident during the train journey that leads to a permanent partial disability, then according to IRCTC’s travel insurance policy, the insured person will be provided an amount of Rs. 7,50,000. In this case too, the insured amount will depend upon the conditions put forward by IRCTC’s policy. The conditions outlined by the policy determine the final amount that will be provided to the insured person.
- The travel insurance policy also provides financial support in covering the hospitalization expenses. In case of any injuries that occurred to the passenger with the insurance policy, an amount up to Rs. 2,00,000 will be provided to cover the medical bills and hospital expenses of the passenger.
- If a passenger dies during the train journey due to an accident or specified untoward incidents as mentioned in the policy, a compensation amount of Rs. 10,000 will be provided for the transportation of mortal remains of the passenger to the place of residence or to the place of cremation or burial ground.
How to Claim the Insurance Policy?
IRCTC instructs that a detailed statement and a completed claim form along with any other required documents should be sent to the nearest office of the insurance company by the insured person or their legal heir or the nominee in order to claim the benefits of the insurance coverage. This step should be completed within an immediate period of 4 months from the date of the occurrence of the incident. Also, the insured person or the nominee should provide the insurance company with all information and proof related to the insurance claim.
Choosing proper safety measures and advanced coverages can be extremely helpful when confronting unexpected incidents in life. The travel insurance policy by IRCTC can be said as one of the best insurance policies available to provide financial support to persons and families during challenging times. With a nominal amount less than a rupee, the insurance policy guarantees safety and protection to the passengers against several risks and uncertain circumstances that can arise during the course of the journey. The next time you book the ticket for your train journey, make sure you select the option to get the insurance coverage for extra safety during your journey.