Indian Railways passengers who buy tickets at reservation counters can now get significant travel insurance for less than half a rupee. This new move extends a popular online feature to millions of offline customers.
What is the 45-Paise Insurance Scheme?
Indian Railways has extended its Optional
Travel Insurance Scheme (OTIS) to passengers who purchase reserved tickets from physical Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters. For a nominal premium of just 45 paise per person, travellers can secure insurance coverage against death, disability, and injuries resulting from a train accident or other specified untoward incidents. Previously, this facility was only available to those booking e-tickets via the IRCTC website or app. Following a directive from the Supreme Court, this much-needed safety net is now accessible to a wider segment of the population that relies on counter bookings. The scheme aims to provide a layer of financial security, making train travel safer for everyone.
Who is Eligible for This Cover?
The optional insurance is available to all Indian citizens booking a reserved ticket. Specifically, it applies to passengers with confirmed (CNF), Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC), or partially confirmed tickets. It does not apply to unreserved or general class tickets. All passengers under a single PNR must be covered if the option is chosen. Children below the age of five are not eligible for this cover unless a ticket with a berth is booked for them. However, children between the ages of 5 and 11 are eligible for coverage.
How to Opt-In at the Counter
To avail this facility, passengers must indicate their choice for insurance while filling out the reservation form at the counter. A crucial condition is that both the ticket fare and the 45-paise premium must be paid using a digital payment method, such as UPI, debit card, or credit card. Cash payments are not accepted for tickets with the insurance option. This is because the 45-paise premium cannot be transacted in cash as fractional coins are no longer in circulation. Passengers must also provide a valid mobile number, as the policy details and a link to enter nominee information will be sent via SMS directly from the insurance company.
What Exactly Does the Insurance Cover?
The financial protection offered for the minimal 45nd paise premium is substantial. The policy provides coverage for incidents that occur from the actual departure to the actual arrival of the train, including the process of boarding and deboarding. The benefits are tiered based on the severity of the outcome. The coverage includes: up to ₹10 lakh for death, up to ₹10 lakh for permanent total disability, up to ₹7.5 lakh for permanent partial disability, up to ₹2 lakh for hospitalisation expenses for injuries, and ₹10,000 for the transportation of mortal remains.
Is It Worth It? The Verdict
For a cost that is virtually negligible, the value offered by the Optional Travel Insurance Scheme is immense. Train accidents, though rare, can have devastating financial consequences for families. This scheme provides a robust safety net against such calamities. The process is straightforward, and the only real requirements are using digital payment and providing a mobile number. While the insurance is optional, the peace of mind it offers for the price of 45 paise makes it a highly recommended choice for every eligible passenger. Once the ticket is booked, it is vital for passengers to use the link sent to them to fill in their nominee details to ensure a smooth claim process for their family, should the need ever arise.
