Indian Railways offers passengers the opportunity to secure travel insurance of up to ₹10 lakh for just 45 paise when booking train tickets online through the IRCTC platform. This coverage is part of the Optional Travel Insurance Scheme (OTIS), which aims to provide financial protection in the event of train accidents or related incidents.
The optional travel insurance scheme (OTIS) is a low-cost insurance plan provided by Indian Railways in collaboration with insurance companies. It is available exclusively to confirmed or RAC (reservation against cancellation) passengers who book tickets through the IRCTC website or mobile app.
The insurance provides compensation for death, disability, and injuries resulting from train accidents, including derailments, collisions, and terrorist attacks. The compensation details are as follows:
Death: ₹10 lakh
Permanent total disability: ₹10 lakh
Permanent partial disability: Up to ₹7.5 lakh
Hospitalisation expenses for injuries: Up to ₹2 lakh
Transportation of mortal remains: ₹10,000
Book e-ticket via IRCTC: This insurance is only available to passengers who book their tickets through the IRCTC website or mobile app.
Check the box during booking: While booking, passengers need to check a box to opt in to the insurance scheme.
Pay the 45 paise premium: The premium is automatically added to the fare upon selection.
Receive policy details: After booking, the insurance company sends policy details and a link to update nominee information to the passenger's registered mobile number and email.
Mandatory nomination: Passengers are required to update their nominee details through the link provided by the insurer to ensure claims can be processed.
The passenger or their nominee must contact the insurance company directly using the details provided during booking. The claims process is entirely between the insured and the insurer, and the IRCTC is not involved in claims. Proper documentation, as specified in the insurance policy, is required to file a claim.
Passengers who book tickets at railway counters
Waitlisted ticket holders
Children under 5 years of age
Foreign tourists booking through international portals
Over the last five years, the insurance companies have settled 333 claims, disbursing a total of ₹27.22 crore to passengers or their families.
This affordable insurance offers an added layer of security for train passengers, providing financial assistance in case of unforeseen events during their travel.
