IRCTC Travel Insurance: An In-Depth Look at Coverage and Benefits

Train Travel is popular among Indian's and preferred by millions of people in the country, thanks to the extensive railway network and affordable fares. With the increasing number of passengers availing of train services, it becomes essential to address concerns related to unforeseen circumstances that can disrupt travel plans. This is where travel insurance comes into play, providing passengers with an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.

When booking train tickets on the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) website or app, travellers have the option to avail themselves of travel insurance. This additional feature allows passengers to safeguard themselves against various travel-related risks, such as trip cancellations, delays, or medical emergencies during the journey.

This article explains all you need to know about the travel insurance option available while booking train tickets on IRCTC. Whether you are a frequent train traveller or planning a one-time trip, understanding the details of this insurance option can help you make informed decisions and ensure a hassle-free journey.

What Is IRCTC Travel Insurance?

When purchasing train tickets through IRCTC website/app, passengers have the option to buy standard travel insurance, priced at a mere 35 paise, inclusive of all taxes. This insurance provides coverage up to Rs 10 lakhs and protects against various unfortunate incidents, such as train accidents resulting in the passenger's death or permanent disability, as well as instances of robbery, loot, and other potential hazards. By opting for this travel insurance, your entire journey from the starting point to the destination will be safeguarded, and this comprehensive coverage costs only 35 paise.

Join Now: PersonalFN is now on Telegram. Join FREE Today to get 'Daily Wealth Letter' and Exclusive Updates on Mutual Funds

Here are the key features of IRCTC Travel Insurance that you must know:

• Travel Insurance can be obtained exclusively through the official IRCTC website or mobile app when purchasing train tickets. During the payment process for your tickets, you have the option to select the travel insurance box and acquire the insurance.

• If you choose the insurance option, each ticket purchased under the same Passenger Name Record (PNR) will have individual travel insurance. For example, if you are travelling with three family members and book their tickets together under one PNR, you will need to purchase separate travel insurance policies for each person for 35 paise per policy.

• It does not extend to incidents such as lost luggage, train delays, personal liability, and similar occurrences. Its sole purpose is to offer compensation specifically for cases of death, disability, and injuries resulting from train accidents.

• Every Indian citizen who books tickets through the IRCTC platform is eligible to purchase this travel insurance, except for children under 5 years of age.

• Once you select the insurance option and make the online payment, you will receive the policy documents directly from the insurer via email.

• Only Indian travellers can avail themselves of this railway travel insurance option, which is exclusively available through the IRCTC mobile application or the official IRCTC website.

• Once you select and purchase the ticket, you will receive a confirmation message on your phone and registered email IDs. The insurance provider will also provide a link for customers to submit their nomination information.

• There are no refunds or cancellations available for the premium. If you choose the insurance option, the coverage will be extended to all bookings made under a single PNR.

What Are the Benefits of IRCTC Travel Insurance?

1. The main advantage of Train Travel Insurance is that it provides coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh in the event of a train accident resulting in death or permanent disability.

2. In situations involving permanent disability, the insurance policy offers coverage of Rs 7.5 lakh and Rs 2 lakh for hospitalisation expenses.

3. The insurance coverage is applicable in cases of incidents such as loot, robbery, and accidents.

How to Claim IRCTC Travel Insurance?

If passengers experience a train mishap or accident, they can claim compensation through the IRCTC, which has partnered with three travel insurance companies in the country. These companies are Shriram General Insurance Company, ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company, and Royal Sundaram General Insurance Company. When filing a claim, passengers can contact any of these insurers for assistance.

When you are visiting the insurance company to file a claim for IRCTC travel insurance, make sure you carry the required identification documents, including the Aadhar Card, PAN Card, and other relevant identification proofs. Take note that the claim for the insurance can be filed within a period of four months from the date of the train accident.

Should You Opt for IRCTC Travel Insurance?

While the majority of individuals do not consider insuring their domestic travels, numerous tragic railroad accidents have made headlines. In the unfortunate event of a railway accident, it is important to consider what steps can be taken. These incidents often involve multiple individuals who may sustain injuries, disabilities, or, in the worst-case scenario, lose their lives. Therefore, it becomes crucial for people to acquire IRCTC travel insurance to provide financial support for their loved ones.

IRCTC offers a travel insurance plan that is available to all its online ticket purchasers. This affordable insurance covers all classes of trains and provides a death benefit of up to Rs 10 Lakhs. By availing of this insurance, passengers can ensure that their family members will receive the necessary financial assistance in case of any unfortunate events during their train journey.

Undoubtedly, the travel insurance provided by IRDAI is among the top-notch options for train travel in India. However, if you seek comprehensive coverage and a wide range of benefits for other emergencies that may occur during your train journey, it is advisable to consider purchasing a dedicated domestic travel insurance policy after analysing your needs and doing thorough research.

KETKI JADHAV is a Content Writer at PersonalFN since August 2021. She is an MBA (Finance) and has over seven years of experience in Retail Banking. Ketki specialises in covering articles around banking, insurance, personal finance, and mutual funds and has been doing it for over three years now.

Disclaimer: Investment in securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and is not meant to influence your investment decisions. It should not be treated as a mutual fund recommendation or advice to make an investment decision.