Indian Railways has extended its optional travel insurance scheme to passengers who book tickets at station counters, a significant move that provides a crucial safety net to millions who still prefer offline booking.
A New Era for Counter Bookings
Until now, the optional travel insurance
scheme offered by Indian Railways was exclusively available to those booking e-tickets through the IRCTC website or app. However, following a directive from the Supreme Court, this facility has been extended to Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters across the country as of October 27, 2026. This bridges a significant gap, ensuring that passengers who buy reserved tickets in person have the same opportunity to secure financial protection against unforeseen incidents during their journey. This decision makes rail travel safer for a wider demographic, including those in rural areas and others who may not have access to online booking platforms.
What Does 45 Paise Get You?
The premium for this optional insurance is a remarkably low 45 paise per passenger. Despite the nominal cost, the coverage is substantial. The policy provides financial protection against train accidents and other specified 'untoward incidents' like terrorist acts or violent robberies. The benefits include up to ₹10 lakh for death or permanent total disability, up to ₹7.5 lakh for permanent partial disability, and up to ₹2 lakh for hospitalisation expenses. Additionally, the scheme covers up to ₹10,000 for the transportation of mortal remains in the unfortunate event of a fatality.
How to Opt-In at the Counter
The process for availing this insurance at the counter is straightforward but has one key requirement: digital payment. When filling out the reservation form, you must indicate that you want to opt for the insurance. Crucially, the entire payment for the ticket and the 45-paise premium must be made through a digital method like a UPI app, debit card, or credit card. Cash payments are not accepted for bookings that include the insurance option. The railway board explained this is because the 45-paise premium cannot be collected in cash using currently circulated coin denominations. You must also provide a valid mobile number, as the policy details will be sent via SMS from the insurance company.
Who Is Eligible and What to Know
This optional insurance is available to all Indian citizens travelling on a confirmed, RAC (Reservation Against Cancellation), or partially confirmed ticket. If you opt for insurance on a single PNR, it will apply to all eligible passengers under that booking. Children aged five and above are eligible for coverage. However, children below the age of five are not covered by this scheme. It is also important to note that after receiving the policy details on your mobile, you will need to follow a link to enter nominee information on the insurance provider's portal. The insurance is valid from the departure of the train until its arrival at the destination, including during boarding and deboarding.
