The Big Change For Counter Bookings
In a move to create parity between online and offline ticketing, Indian Railways has extended its Optional Travel Insurance Scheme (OTIS) to passengers who purchase reserved tickets at Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters. This change, effective
from October 27, 2026, follows a Supreme Court directive aimed at providing the same safety net to all passengers, regardless of their booking method. Previously, the low-cost insurance was exclusively available to those booking through the IRCTC website or app. Now, millions who rely on physical counters for their travel plans can also secure coverage.
What The 45-Paise Insurance Covers
For a nominal premium of just 45 paise per passenger, the insurance scheme offers substantial financial protection in case of a train accident or other untoward incidents during the journey. The coverage includes up to ₹10 lakh for death or permanent total disability. In the case of permanent partial disability, the compensation is up to ₹7.5 lakh. The policy also provides up to ₹2 lakh for hospitalisation expenses and ₹10,000 for the transportation of mortal remains. These benefits are available for passengers with confirmed, RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation), or partially confirmed tickets. The scheme does not cover unreserved or general tickets.
How To Opt-In At The Station
The process at the counter is designed to be straightforward. When filling out the reservation form, you must indicate your choice to opt for the insurance. Crucially, passengers who choose this option must provide a valid mobile number. After you give your consent, the reservation staff will add the 45-paise premium to your total fare. Policy details are then sent via SMS from the insurance company to the registered mobile number, often with a link to update nominee information.
The Digital Payment Mandate
There is one critical condition for availing this insurance at the counter: the entire transaction must be digital. Passengers who opt for insurance must pay the total amount — ticket fare plus the 45-paise premium — using methods like UPI, debit or credit cards, or QR codes. Cash payment is not accepted for tickets that include the insurance premium. The reason for this is logistical; the 45nd paise premium cannot be collected in cash as fractional coins of such low denominations are no longer in circulation. Therefore, if you wish to have this insurance cover, be prepared to pay digitally at the counter.
Is It Compulsory And Who Is Eligible?
The insurance remains entirely optional; you are not required to take it. The reservation staff are instructed to inform passengers about the facility, but the final decision rests with the traveller. The scheme is available to all Indian citizens booking a reserved ticket, and once opted for, it covers all passengers under that single PNR. Children below five years of age, who travel without a ticket, are not covered. However, children between five and eleven who have a ticket are eligible for the insurance.
