Indian Railways is enhancing passenger safety by extending its optional travel insurance scheme. Previously limited to online bookings, this crucial financial protection is now available for reserved tickets purchased at physical counters.
A Major Step for Passenger Parity
In a significant
move to create a more inclusive safety net, Indian Railways has expanded its Optional Travel Insurance Scheme (OTIS) to cover passengers who buy reserved tickets from Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters. This decision, effective from October 27, 2026, bridges a critical gap that previously existed between those who booked tickets online via the IRCTC platform and the millions of travellers who rely on physical booking counters. The extension follows a directive from the Supreme Court, ensuring that a wider section of the population can access this low-cost, high-benefit insurance, regardless of their access to digital booking platforms. This makes train travel not just more convenient but also more secure for everyone.
Understanding the Insurance Scheme
The railway's travel insurance scheme is a voluntary protection plan designed to offer financial support in case of accidents or other untoward incidents during a train journey. For a remarkably low premium of just 45 paise per passenger, the scheme provides substantial coverage. It has been available for several years to passengers booking e-tickets on the IRCTC website and app but is now being rolled out for offline bookings. The same premium and policy terms that apply to online bookings will be applicable for tickets bought at counters. The insurance is available for all passengers with confirmed, RAC, or partially confirmed tickets, but not for unreserved general tickets or for children under the age of five.
What the 45-Paise Premium Covers
Despite the nominal cost, the financial coverage is significant. The policy provides up to ₹10 lakh in case of death or permanent total disability resulting from a train accident or a covered incident. For permanent partial disability, the compensation is up to ₹7.5 lakh. The scheme also includes benefits for medical treatment, covering hospitalisation expenses for injuries up to ₹2 lakh. Additionally, it provides ₹10,000 for the transportation of mortal remains in the event of a fatality during the journey. This comprehensive coverage offers a crucial financial cushion to passengers and their families against unforeseen tragedies.
How to Opt-In at the Booking Counter
The process to avail this insurance at a PRS counter is straightforward but has specific requirements. Passengers must indicate their willingness to opt for the insurance on the physical reservation form. Crucially, they must provide a valid mobile number, as the policy details will be sent via SMS to this number. Another key condition is that payment for the entire ticket fare, including the 45nd paise premium, must be made digitally. This can be done via UPI, debit card, credit card, or QR code. The facility will not be available for cash payments because the low premium amount is difficult to handle in cash transactions. Once the booking is complete, the insurance company will send a link to the registered mobile number to fill in nominee details.
The Importance of Nominee Details
While opting for the insurance is the first step, completing the process is equally vital. After receiving the policy confirmation via SMS or email, passengers must use the provided link to update their nominee details on the insurance provider's portal. This step is critical for a smooth claim process. If nominee information is not filled out, the legal heirs of the passenger would still be entitled to the claim, but they would face a much more cumbersome and lengthy process to receive the compensation. Taking a few extra moments to register a nominee ensures that in the event of a claim, the financial assistance reaches the intended family members without unnecessary delays or legal hurdles.
