Offline Counter Ticket Coverage Takes Effect
Enhancing passenger welfare initiatives, the Indian Railways travel insurance scheme officially expanded on October 27 to include passengers purchasing reserved tickets directly from offline station reservation counters. Previously restricted to online IRCTC portal bookings, the Optional Travel Insurance (OTI) facility is now accessible across all physical booking windows nationwide.
Railway Ministry officials confirmed that passengers booking reserved tickets can opt for comprehensive coverage up to Rs 10 lakh by paying a nominal premium of 45 paise per person, inclusive of all taxes.
The policy expansion aims to deliver equal social security protection to millions of non-digital travelers who utilize physical railway reservation counters daily. Software systems across all Passenger Reservation System (PRS) terminals were updated to enable the single-click opt-in facility.
Coverage Provisions and Claim Breakdown
Under the updated Indian Railways travel insurance framework, the 45-paise policy provides structured financial compensation for travel contingencies. In the unfortunate event of death or permanent total disability resulting from a train accident or untoward incident, the policy pays out the maximum sum assured of Rs 10 lakh.
For permanent partial disability, the insurance coverage provides Rs 7.5 lakh, while hospitalization expenses for injury treatment receive up to Rs 2 lakh in coverage. The policy also includes Rs 10,000 for transportation of mortal remains.
Also Read : https://indiathisweek.in/india/isro-expansion-plans-four-functional-launch-pads-by-2029/
Public sector insurance partners, including United India Insurance and National Insurance, manage claim processing through an integrated digital portal. Passengers opting for coverage receive SMS confirmation containing policy link details directly on their registered mobile numbers.
Indian Railways Travel Insurance Strengthens Public Safety
Expanding the Indian Railways travel insurance system represents part of a broader safety modernization strategy undertaken by the Railway Board. Alongside insurance availability, rail authorities are accelerating the installation of the Kavach automatic train protection system across high-density corridors.
Station master offices and booking counters feature prominent informational posters explaining how travelers can select the insurance option during ticket purchases. Passenger welfare associations welcomed the decision, noting that extending low-cost insurance to offline counter bookings protects vulnerable socioeconomic groups who rely on traditional ticketing channels.
Streamlined Claims Process and Operational Standards
To ensure rapid claim settlements under the Indian Railways travel insurance scheme, the ministry established dedicated help desks across major divisional railway headquarters. Nominee details can be updated online post-ticket issuance using the mobile booking reference code.
Railway authorities instructed divisional managers to coordinate directly with insurance providers to process accident claims within a strict 15-day timeline. By combining affordable premiums with simplified claim protocols, Indian Railways continues improving safety guarantees across its national rail network.