When booking train tickets through IRCTC, most of us quickly click through the options, often overlooking a small checkbox for travel insurance. The cost? A mere 45 paise.
Train travel is a lifeline for millions in India, and while accidents are rare, they are a stark reminder of life's unpredictability. This small 45-paise insurance offered by IRCTC is perhaps one of the most powerful and overlooked features that can offer significant peace of mind.
For the price of less than a rupee, this insurance provides substantial coverage that activates the moment you board the train with a valid e-ticket and continues until you disembark. Here’s what it typically covers:
Accidental Death: A payout of ₹10 lakh to your nominee.
Permanent Total Disability: A payout of ₹10 lakh if you suffer permanent total disability.
Permanent Partial Disability: Up to ₹7.5 lakh, depending on the severity of the disability.
Hospitalisation due to Injury: Up to ₹2 lakh for medical expenses.
Transportation of Mortal Remains: ₹10,000 to cover the cost of transporting mortal remains.
This coverage is available to Indian residents holding a valid IRCTC e-ticket. The 45 paise breaks down to a base premium of ₹0.38 and an IGST charge of ₹0.07.
Once you book your tickets and opt for the insurance, you'll receive a separate email from the insurance company that partners with IRCTC (such as United India Insurance Co. Ltd., Liberty General Insurance, or Royal Sundaram General Insurance).
It is crucial to provide your nominee details directly to the insurer as soon as you receive this email. This ensures that in an unfortunate event, your family can claim the benefits without hassle.
In a country where over 2 crore people travel by train every day, the risks, though small, are real. From minor slips while boarding or de-boarding to more severe incidents like derailments, unforeseen events can occur. Imagine the financial burden if a family member were to suffer a debilitating injury or worse!
This 45-paise insurance isn't just about protecting yourself; it's about safeguarding your family from potential financial ruin. Unlike some insurance plans, this is not a reimbursement-based model for death or disability; beneficiaries receive a direct payout, offering immediate support. Hospital expenses, however, are reimbursed up to the specified limit.
Read more: Bank ATM Will Soon Give You More ₹100 and ₹200 Notes
The next time you book your train ticket on IRCTC, pause for a moment before clicking past that tiny checkbox. For a negligible cost, you can secure significant financial protection for yourself and your loved ones. Sometimes, the smallest choices can lead to the smartest and most impactful outcomes. Don't underestimate the power of that 45 paise.
Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.
Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related documents carefully before investing.
Published on: Jun 4, 2025, 1:38 PM IST
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