A Landmark Directive for Passenger Safety
In a move aimed at enhancing passenger safety and welfare, the Supreme Court of India has directed Indian Railways to extend travel insurance coverage to all tickets sold at station counters. This directive, with a firm implementation deadline of October
27, 2026, ensures that the millions of passengers who rely on offline booking methods will have access to the same financial protection that has been available to online users for years. The order came during proceedings that followed a comprehensive review of railway safety measures after the tragic Odisha train accident in June 2023. The court emphasised the need for equitable access to safety nets, especially for travellers from rural or less digitally-connected areas who predominantly use ticket counters. The Railway Board has been made directly responsible for ensuring the scheme is implemented by the specified date.
What the Travel Insurance Covers
The new scheme for counter tickets is expected to mirror the benefits of the existing travel insurance policy offered on the IRCTC website and app. This optional insurance provides a crucial financial cushion in the event of a train accident or other untoward incidents during the journey. The coverage is substantial, especially given the minimal premium. Under the current online scheme, passengers are provided with financial protection that includes up to ₹10 lakh for death or permanent total disability. In the case of permanent partial disability, the coverage is up to ₹7.5 lakh. The policy also includes provisions for medical expenses, offering up to ₹2 lakh for hospitalisation due to injuries sustained during the journey. Additionally, it provides a sum of ₹10,000 for the transportation of mortal remains in the unfortunate event of a passenger's death.
An Affordable Premium for Peace of Mind
One of the most remarkable aspects of the existing IRCTC travel insurance is its affordability, and the offline version is expected to follow suit. Currently, passengers booking tickets online pay a nominal premium of just 45 paise per person. This incredibly low cost makes it one of the most accessible insurance products in the country. While Indian Railways has yet to announce the exact premium for counter-booked tickets, it is widely anticipated to be in the same negligible range. The goal is to make safety affordable for every single passenger, regardless of their class of travel or booking method. This small, almost unnoticeable cost adds a significant layer of financial security for individuals and their families, ensuring that they are not left vulnerable in the face of an unforeseen tragedy during their travels.
How It Will Likely Work at the Counter
The operational details for providing insurance on counter tickets are being finalised by the Railways. However, the process is expected to be simple and require minimal extra steps for the passenger. The most crucial piece of information a passenger will likely need to provide is a valid mobile number. Once the ticket is booked and the insurance option is confirmed, the policy details are typically sent directly to the passenger via SMS and to their registered email address, if provided. This digital document serves as proof of insurance and contains all necessary information, including the policy number and the contact details for the insurance provider. This streamlined process ensures that the passenger receives confirmation instantly and has easy access to their policy information without the need for physical paperwork.
Bridging the Digital Divide in Passenger Care
This initiative is more than just an extension of a service; it is a significant step towards inclusivity. A large number of railway passengers in India, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas, still depend on physical ticket counters for their travel needs. These may include daily wage earners, migrant workers, the elderly, or simply those who are not comfortable with or lack access to digital payment and booking platforms. Until now, this demographic was excluded from the benefits of travel insurance, creating a divide in passenger safety standards. By making insurance accessible at the point of sale for everyone, Indian Railways is ensuring that financial protection is not a privilege reserved for the digitally savvy but a basic right for all its customers. This move strengthens the social safety net and underscores a commitment to the well-being of every traveller.
