Decoding IRCTC’s revolutionary 35 paise travel insurance scheme

The recent train accident in Odisha has highlighted the significance of ensuring the safety and financial well-being of railway passengers. The Indian Railways offers a travel insurance program at a minimal cost of 35 paise per passenger, aiming to provide a certain level of insurance coverage for their protection. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) offers travel insurance as an optional service for a nominal fee, which passengers can choose to avail at the time of booking their e-tickets.

Once the ticket is booked, the insurance selection cannot be changed. However, purchasing travel insurance while booking a ticket through IRCTC is not mandatory.

As per the information provided on the IRCTC website, the premium for travel insurance, effective from November 1, 2021, is 35 paise per passenger, including all taxes.

IRCTC terms and conditions page outlines 5 advantages of obtaining insurance coverage:

1) In The Event Of Death: If the insured suffers accidental bodily injury during the trip, resulting in their death within 12 months from the date of the accident or untoward incident, a payment of 100 percent of the specified sum insured mentioned in the Schedule will be provided.

2) Permanent Total Disability: If the insured experiences accidental bodily injury during the trip, resulting in permanent total disability within 12 months from the date of the accident or untoward incident, a payment of 100 percent of the specified sum insured mentioned in the Schedule will be made.

3) Permanent Partial Disability: If the insured suffers accidental bodily injury during the trip, leading to permanent partial disability within 12 months from the date of the accident or untoward incident, a payment of 75 percent of the specified sum insured will be made. This payment is separate and independent of any other causes or factors contributing to the disability.

4) Hospitalisation Expenses For Injury: The insurance company will reimburse those insured for the expenses incurred, up to a maximum of Rs 2 lakh, for hospitalisation and medical treatment related to any injury sustained by the insured while on a trip during the coverage period.

5) Transportation Of Mortal Remains: As per the terms and conditions stated on the IRCTC website, if the insured person passes away due to a train accident or any unfortunate incidents defined in sections 123, 124, and 124A of the Railways Act, 1989, during the journey, the insurance company will provide a reimbursement of Rs. 10,000. This amount covers the expenses for transporting the deceased's body to their regular place of residence or a cremation/burial ground. No supporting documents are required for this reimbursement.

Essential documents needed for the claim process:

·        An official report from the railway authority confirming the train accident or untoward incident

·        Report from the railway authority containing information about passengers who have been declared deceased, hospitalised, or disabled

·        Hospital declaration documents

·        Nominee declaration as per the IRCTC portal

Additionally, there may be other documents required depending on the specific circumstances and claim of the passenger. Nominees, insured individuals, or legal heirs can consult the IRCTC notification — https://contents.irctc.co.in/en/InsuranceTermCondition.pdf — for comprehensive information.

IRCTC: Claim Procedure

The insured person, their nominee, or legal heir must submit a comprehensive written statement, along with the completed claim form and any other relevant information related to the claim, to the nearest office of the insurance company within 4 months from the date when the insured event occurred. The detailed statement should contain all necessary details and supporting materials to facilitate the claim process.

The insured person, their nominee, or legal heir is required to provide the insurance company with any necessary information, assistance, and evidence pertaining to the claim, as deemed reasonable by the company.

All relevant proof related to any matters on which a claim is founded must be provided to the insurance company in accordance with the policy details.