A Major Step Towards Inclusive Safety
Until now, the affordable travel insurance offered by Indian Railways was a benefit reserved for those who booked their tickets online via the IRCTC portal or app. This left out a substantial number of passengers who rely on traditional ticket counters,
particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Following a directive from the Supreme Court, this disparity is set to end. Starting October 27, 2026, all passengers, regardless of whether they book online or offline, will have access to this insurance coverage. The move has been lauded as a vital step towards ensuring equitable access to financial protection for all railway users, recognising that safety should not depend on one's mode of booking a ticket.
How Much Does It Cost?
One of the most appealing aspects of this scheme is its remarkably low cost. For passengers booking online, the premium is currently just 45 paise per person, inclusive of all taxes. While the exact premium for counter tickets is yet to be finalised by the Railways, it is expected to be similarly nominal. This pricing makes it one of the most accessible insurance products in the country, designed to provide significant financial support without being a burden on the traveller's pocket. The scheme is not available for children below the age of five. It's a small price for substantial peace of mind during your journey.
What the Insurance Policy Covers
The coverage provided under this scheme is comprehensive, offering financial assistance in the unfortunate event of a train accident or other untoward incidents as defined by the Railways Act. The sum insured is distributed as follows: - For death or permanent total disability: ₹10 lakh. - For permanent partial disability: Up to ₹7.5 lakh. - For hospitalization expenses due to injury: Up to ₹2 lakh. - For transportation of mortal remains: ₹10,000. This tiered coverage ensures that support is available for a range of serious outcomes, from immediate medical needs to providing for a family in the worst-case scenario. The liability for claims rests between the insured passenger and the insurance company, not with IRCTC or Indian Railways.
How to Opt-In and Complete the Process
The process for counter-ticket holders will be slightly different from the simple checkbox available online. When purchasing a ticket at a counter, passengers will need to provide a valid mobile number. After the ticket is issued, the passenger will receive an SMS from the insurance provider. This message will contain a link to a web page where they must enter their journey details, such as the PNR number, and—most importantly—fill in the nominee details. This step is absolutely critical. Without a registered nominee, the claim process can become significantly delayed and complicated for the family members seeking the insurance payout. Therefore, it is essential for passengers to complete this digital step after their offline purchase to ensure the policy is fully effective.
Understanding the Fine Print
While the scheme is expansive, there are a few key details to remember. The insurance is applicable for the entire duration of the journey, from boarding to deboarding. The coverage applies to accidents and untoward incidents like collisions or derailments, but typically excludes self-inflicted injuries. The scheme is managed by a consortium of insurance companies, and the policy is randomly assigned to one of them at the time of booking. Passengers receive policy documents via email and SMS, which contain the contact details for the specific insurer responsible for their policy. All future correspondence regarding claims must be directed to that company. Remember, opting for the insurance is the first step; completing the nomination is what ensures your loved ones are protected.
