After the success of the passenger insurance policy which was bought by 40 lakh passengers, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) is now planning to launch baggage insurance for train passengers. The policy will also cover mobile phones and laptops.
The IRCTC proposes to provide this cover in partnership with general insurance companies such as ICICI Lombard. The IRCTC stated that there is a vast potential to expand the insurance cover, which would also very likely bring down the premium amount.
The chairman and MD of the IRCTC Mr. A K Manocha also stated that there were plans to extend the scheme to ensure cover for passengers boarding and alighting from trains and offer cover for any untoward incidents in the station premises. Additionally, the IRCTC is planning to extend the coverage to unreserved passenger category.
It may also change the option on the website while booking tickets online, so that the insurance plan is added by default. Passengers who do not wish to opt for it will need to uncheck the option.
The scheme that provides a cover of up to ₹10 lakhs at a premium of 92 paise has been in effect since 1st September 2016 and has gained immense popularity.