GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Buying a used vehicle has taken centre stage as people believe that second hand vehicles are not a bad investment. A well maintained second hand car saves you a lot of money, gives you the same satisfaction as a new car, and keeps providing quality transportation for many years at a much reduced rate.

Did you know that a new car loses 11% of its value on the way home? And significant vehicle depreciation occurs in the first few years of use. But with a used car, the bulk of depreciation has already happened!

Here is the catch; tons of pre-owned vehicles are available in the market, and narrowing down the best deals is rather complicated when you do not have enough knowledge. So, to save your time and money, here are 7 common mistakes you should avoid when buying a used car.

1. Not enough research:
Do not rely on the car dealer blindly about everything. Before you take a decision to buy a car:
• Note down your requirements
• Figure out what things are non-acceptable to you
• Decide what model and price fit best to your needs

2. Not having the test driving:
Test drive is your chance to inspect the car’s condition thoroughly. Check the engine noise, brake, clutch control, steering components, gearbox, air conditioning, and how comfortable you are when in the driving seat. It is better to ask a car expert friend to accompany you for the test drive. And do not make the mistake of taking a short test drive; this is your time to feel the vehicle and help you make the right decision.

3. Ignoring the online reviews:
They are there to help you buy a perfect vehicle. Though every business receives a few negative comments, only if there are consistently bad reviews about a dealership or a car model, think twice before buying it.

4. Not getting it checked by a mechanic:
Remember always to get a professional’s second opinion. Please do not pay for the car you are interested in unless you get your trusted mechanic to verify your choice. Otherwise, you might find many unpleasant surprises down the road.

5. Skip reading the car documents and paperwork:
Agreed, this is the most tedious part of buying a car, but diligently checking the paperwork will help you understand the whole process. You will also be aware of the perks provided by the dealer, which you can take advantage of! Also, proofreading all the documents will ensure the trust factor and the authenticity of the car and the previous owner.

6. Relying on appearance:
It is essential to understand that a car’s performance is the main factor determining its overall condition. Sure, a good-looking car will make a good impression on the people around you, but it is not hard to paint your vehicle and add a few accessories to make it look polished and new. Instead of relying on external factors and aesthetics, focus on the car’s performance to decide the value for money.

7. Not asking about the history:
Ask whether any car parts were changed, or major repair work was performed on the car. Please do not trust the dealer’s word here as they might trick you into buying a car with a bad history. It is crucial to confirm whether the vehicle was involved in an accident or holds any other concerning history.

Buying a used car means no excessive fees or tons of paperwork, plus the lower car insurance renewal. And you still get to buy a certified and thoroughly inspected vehicle. Also, along with your RC documents, ensure that the dealer transfers the insurance in your name too by checking the car insurance renewal status.

Buying pre-owned cars is not a luxury asset, instead an opportunistic investment done for fulfilling dreams. So go for the best deal for your driving experience!

Are you buying a used car? HERE is everything you need to know about car insurance?

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Getting motor insurance regardless of the fact that whether it is new or old, is always confusing. Technical jargons, guarantee amount, clauses, picking motor insurance company, etc. are some things which everybody does not understand, and it leads them to make wrong decisions. They all look lucrative from afar, but which is the right one.

Hence, here we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions that will help you in getting the right motor insurance for you.

Question: What does a motor insurance cover?

Motor insurance covers you against any financial burden due to damage of your insured vehicle.

Question: Does the motor insurance offer different coverage types?

Yes, different types of insurance coverage types are available such as bodily liability, comprehensive, property damage liability and uninsured and underinsured and collision. You can choose the insurance coverage type as per your needs and requirements.

Question: Is buying motor insurance mandatory?

Yes, it is mandatory to buy motor insurance though the laws of carrying insurance vary from state to state. It is recommended you visit the online website of the government transportation of your state to make sure that you got the right motor insurance.

Question: Is a motor insurance expensive?

Yes, motor insurance is relatively expensive. Though you should also consider the credit report and driving the history of your vehicle while buying insurance.

Question: What happens if I forget to pay the premium fee for my insurance policy?

You will get a warning notice from the motor insurance company. But if you forget paying a premium fee over and over again, they can either issue late charges or will cancel your policy. So, it is recommended to pay your premium fee on time.

Question: Can I change the motor insurance coverage if I want to change it?

Yes, if you want to change the motor insurance coverage then you can, but you might need to pay a cancellation fee. But if you wait till the policy maturity then you can change the coverage without extra fee.

Question: How can I get a discount on motor insurance?

Discounts are quite common when it comes to motor insurance. Different motor insurance companies offer different deals and discounts on motor insurance so you can choose the right one as per your needs and requirements.

Question: Can my gender affect the amount of the premium fee?

Yes, gender affects the premium rates of motor insurance. According to the statistics, male drivers are generally involved in more accidents. Therefore, companies offer motor insurance at a higher premium fee to males as compared to females.

Question: Can I get motor insurance even if my vehicle is more than 20 years old?

It depends upon the shape and condition of the vehicle you have. If your vehicle is not in a condition to get coverage, then it is not recommended you to get higher coverage and it does not make sense to spend a higher amount onto it.

Question: What is No Claim Bonus?

It is a discount after a claim-free year or an incentive for driving safe and avoiding accidents.

Question: What are the documents that are required to be submitted for a Motor Insurance claim?

Required documents differ from company to company but some of the most important document that would be required are: Claim form, registration copy of the vehicle, an estimate of the loss, original repair invoice and payment receipt.

Buying a car is no more a family dream as people are investing in a car in their early careers. With the increase in pollution and traffic in most of the metro cities, ditching your two-wheeler for a car would seem a better idea for a comfortable ride to the office.

We get all excited while planning to buy a new car and would end up visiting various car showrooms to extract the best bid in our budget. However, when it comes to purchasing insurance for the Car, we would hardly care to see what it actually covers and prefer policies with minimum premium.

Purchasing the correct vehicle insurance is although little tricky, we present a primary point-agenda to buy the best vehicle protection with the best car insurance price in india to make your life simpler.

What should a comprehensive car insurance plan cover? 

1. Any damage to the Car due to Natural disasters: 

Since natural calamities are not in our control, anything such as earthquake, storm, cyclone, landslide, Tsunami, etc. must be covered in your plan.

2. Any damage Due to Man-Made disasters:

Any damage caused due to a terrorist attack, a riot, strike and during the transportation of your Car should also be compensated by your insurance plan.

3. Personal Accident Cover: 

It's imperative that your Car insurance also provides for you and your family in case of an unfortunate accident resulting in partial or full disability and even death. Under a comprehensive policy you 

4. Third-Party Legal Liability:

If a third party suffers any damages during the accidents or a surrounding property gets damaged, this cover protects you against the legal liability.

What is not covered under a Motor Insurance NOT cover?

• Driving the car under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Intentional loss and damage to the vehicle.
• If someone else is driving your car and it is damaged while being driven by that person.
• Driving without a license.
• Damage caused due to war, mutiny, invasion by the enemy, nuclear risk.
• Any mechanical or electrical breakdown of the Car due to Driver's mistake or because of the condition of the vehicle.

Always pick a top-rated agency 

If it's cheap, it's compromised, hence don't get attracted by any plan that assures a full coverage under a low premium fee. In case of an emergency, the priority is getting your claim as early as possible. Go for a reputed company in the market that provides fast claim settlements along with great customer service.

Key factors to consider before purchasing Car insurance:

• Allowance for the commute - If your Car is under repair, make sure your plan includes an allowance for the daily commute by your insurer.
• Cover for lost car keys - If you lost your car keys or someone has broken into the lock system, you will get cover for replacing the lock.
• Cover for hotel stay - Suppose your Car has become immobile after involving in an accident and you need to stay nearby while it is being repaired, your plan must bear the expenses of your stay in a hotel.
• No Claim Bonus - If you haven't filed a claim during the period of your policy, you can apply for a no-claim bonus. Also, if you make only one claim, you still get to keep your NCB.
• Repair of glass, rubber, plastic and fibre parts - If such parts of the car are damaged, you can get them repaired, and this does not affect your No Claim Bonus.
• Lost Personal Belongings and Baggage Cover - If your Car doesn't have an anti-theft device that is approved by the Automobile Research Association of India, the insurance company gives you cover for the lost personal belongings. 

Bottom line!

While you spend so much time researching the latest model, the jazziest colours, the snazziest of safety features, also choose the best car insurance policy in India that offers you higher protection against.

Thanks to higher disposal incomes and many attractive car loans available in the market, owning a car in India is no more a luxury. You spend a good amount of money to select a model, accessories, and safety measures like gear lock and central locking for your proud possession. But, have you ever given a thought about why your car requires a valid car insurance policy? As driving in India has its own perils, the Motor Act, 1988 made it mandatory for all car owners to possess a valid car insurance policy. 

The car insurance policy not only indemnifies you in the event of an accident, damage, theft, or loss affecting your car but also offers protection in case of third-party liability. Instead of treating your car insurance policy as an expense, you must consider it as a protection.

Here are some of the most noteworthy key points that will help you to understand the benefits of having car insurance.

• Monetary benefits of a comprehensive car insurance 

  One of the key benefits of a car insurance policy is the reimbursement in the form of financial benefits if the car meets with an accident or gets stolen.

• Cashless repair facility

  The benefit of cashless repair facility can be availed when an accident-related repair is completed in a network garage. Protection against losses caused due to natural calamities like earthquakes and fire.

• Protection against third-party liability and legal cases.

  A good car insurance policy provides you protection caused to a third-party, like injuries, damage to another vehicle, or death while using your vehicle.

How to select a recognized car insurance firm?

It is essential for you to know if the insurance company is registered with the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA). Before you plan to buy car insurance online from an insurer, validate that the company is featured in the IRDA list of authorized insurance companies.

How to check your car insurance status online?

Once you have purchased a car insurance policy, it is advisable to keep your Car Insurance details handy at all times which might be required at the time of filing an insurance claim.

If you are unsure about the status of your car insurance policy, then you can check it on the official website of the Insurance Information Bureau (IIB), which has been created by the IRDA (Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority). 

When you are performing the car insurance policy status, check on the IIB website, you must take care of the following points:

• In case the car insurance policy has been issued recently, the details will not be available online.
• While entering the car number, do not use spaces or any special characters.
• Please note that data is available only for those policies, which have been issued after March 2010.
• This option can be utilized for a maximum of 3 times by using your mobile number or email id. 

With the car insurance status checks been made simple, it is easier for you to keep track of your car insurance policy. Make sure that you renew your car insurance policy before the expiry date of the present policy to enjoy continued protection against damages. 

These essential Car Insurance tips will help you file a claim with your insurer and get it approved without any hassles. You can also buy or renew your Car Insurance online instantly as per your preference.

Having a car insured takes many brainstorming sessions in which you have to consider several factors. The premiums paid towards a car insurance policy can be a wrecking ball to your hard-earned money. The requirement for purchasing a suitable policy is something that can't be overlooked. An ideal approach to manage this undesirable circumstance is to know about significant components that influence the vehicle insurance premium. The adequate knowledge of these determinants will enable you to have decent policy terms from the best car insurance company in india with the same advantages and deductibles. Here are some of the factors that directly affect the premium rates,

• Type of Car – Undoubtedly, the subject of your insurance that is your car determines your premium rates and is one of the significant factors considered under the premium bar as some of the vehicles are either stolen; lack specific safety measures or incur more repair costs.
• Driving Habits of the Driver – If you have a record of bad driving, accidents or too many traffic fines under your belt then the insurance companies may refuse to give insurance or charge the high cost of the policy as they strictly adjudge that another accident is prone to happen soon. However, if you make sincere efforts to drive safely, your record may lose value over time, and your insurance premiums can be more manageable for you.
• Demographic Factors – Things like your age, profession, geographical location have quite a weight on your insurance premium allocation. For instance, if you live in densely populated regions, then you are more prone to collisions, thefts or injuries hence higher the premium. Whereas, if you live nearly in a hamlet, then your premium may descend accordingly. Similarly, take age or gender; for example, if you are young and reckless, you may have to shell higher premium amounts. In some cases, women tend to pay lesser premium than man. No reason, just giving an edge to gender parity and all.
• Customized Car Insurance Policy- Another primary reason for increment and decrement of insurance premiums. A well-customized car plan that completes the necessities of your desired car may cost you high premium rates. Many insurance firms offer well-tailored policy plans that would prove beneficial to the insured on a personal basis.
• Car coverage and choice of deductibles - Insurance premiums may vary depending upon the type of coverage the insured chooses for their car. Types of coverage depend upon the state of the car; they could be collision, liability, comprehensive, personal injury protection coverage, etc. A deductible is an amount you pay before your policy period to pay for an uncovered loss, setting high deductibles indicates less money to pay in policy.

In the end, one must ensure that paying for car insurance is an essential part of owning a car. Hence, try to come with a pivotal decision that would lower your premium at any cost.

Health problems can occur suddenly and without preamble, and it can often mess up your financial planning with unexpected expenses. It has made health insurance important for every family to help decrease any unplanned financial burden. Though most of the companies provide their employees with health insurance coverage, it is not sufficient and can also exclude many ailments. Emergencies do not see our feasibility; hence, a reckless attitude towards health could put you in financial risk. Also, if we are paying for a thing, we tend to be very careful about the benefits we would be receiving.

However, it is not just about taking a health insurance plan; instead, it is about choosing the right health plan for your family to get the maximum benefits at the time of emergency. It is essential that you understand various factors that will help you choose the right health insurance policy .  Here are a few essential things you should know while deciding to buy a health insurance plan.

What kind of health plan suits you?

Health insurance plans can be indemnity plans and defined benefit plans. The defined benefit plan pays a lump sum amount for treatment without going into the detailed breakup of hospital expenses. On the other hand, an indemnity plan reimburses the hospital expenses. It is recommended that your health insurance portfolio should have indemnity plans and additional critical illness plans which are defined benefit plans. 

Which indemnity cover suits you: Individual health insurance or family floater?

If you want extensive coverage, individual health insurance is the option. In this type, you will buy separate plans for each member of the family, and premium for each policy will be based on the age, and respective sum assured. However, if you are a family person, it is recommended that you buy a family floater (FF) plan to cover your whole family. Then you will not need to buy separate policies for each family member. The premium for family floater plans is also less than individual plans, and there is a higher sum assured. The most important factor is that anyone can use the amount for medical treatment. Also, it is possible to cover parents if they are senior citizens with a slightly higher premium.

Other important considerations while choosing health insurance for your family:

• Select the sum insured based on your age and marital status, because the risk is less when you are younger, and it climbs as you grow older.
• Select a plan that has a minimum waiting period for pre-existing health conditions.
• Select a plan that allows you to renew at 75 or 80 years of age.
• Consider the range of hospitals that the insurer is affiliated with.
• Compare premiums and plans from more than one insurer and remember to read the customer reviews.
• Read between the lines to understand the exclusions.

Insurance does not guarantee good health, but it will help you in taking care of your loved ones the best way possible during health emergencies. 

As the world revolutionises and turns towards more eco-friendly options, the emergence of Electric Vehicles, or EVs, has also come to the limelight. They are not only cost-effective but a good eco-friendly riding option. They help in the reduction of harmful gases in the atmosphere. It keeps the balance of the environment intact. This, in turn, helps maintain the balance of global warming. The Indian Government has also prioritised shifting all vehicles plying on Indian roads to electric vehicles or EVs by 2030.

To make this possible, a lot of steps have been taken. The government wants to make EVs affordable, usable, and accessible to all. Are long charging hours stopping you from buying an EV? Batteries make up 40-50% of the cost of every EV right now. Additionally, battery charging can also take long hours. Hence, battery swapping was established as a plausible solution.

The battery-swapping policy was introduced in the 2022-23 budget. Let's find out more about it.

What is the new policy of the Indian Government?
The Indian Government has released a new policy focusing on two and three wheeler vehicles with electric-powered engines. The main purpose behind the policy introduced by NITI Ayog focuses on swapping the batteries instead of charging them. It is not only cost-effective but also ensures good time management.

How is swapping batteries better than charging?
There are a variety of merits that you can derive by swapping the batteries instead of charging them. These are

● Time management:
It is a known fact that charging batteries can be an extremely tedious process. It takes approximately an hour or more to charge a battery completely, which can be a waste of time if you are in a hurry. Instead, if you swap the battery, it will only take you a few minutes. It is because the batteries will already be charged.

● Space management:
The chargers that are present at the charging stations are furiously slow. Moreover, they can only charge one vehicle at a time. Instead, if you swap the batteries with a pre-charged one, you need not wait for your turn to charge. All the discharged batteries can also be charged once and used when ready.

● Cost-effective: Batteries can be costly, which limits the consumers to buy an EV. With the swapping of batteries, the batteries will be available on a subscription basis. This was done to make batteries and EVs affordable to all.

● Less anxiety:
One major issue with EVs is running out of charge before the destination. If the battery swapping stations are set up successfully, this will not be an issue anymore. You can easily swap the batteries in minutes and go to your destination without hassles.

These are some clear pointers on why battery swapping is a game-changer for EVs. The Government is trying its best to establish EVs as the future of India. We should also do our share in making the world free from pollution and carbon emissions. With methods like battery swapping, EVs can be more accessible and affordable. Make sure to buy car insurance policy online to keep your EV safe and sound. Contact your insurance provider to understand the terms and conditions better while covering an EV.

Click HERE to buy car insurance policy online for your EV.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

When purchasing insurance, people check the plan's conditions, coverage, and exclusions. A good insurance agency offers the best plans and benefits to its customers. But do you know how to identify an excellent general insurance company? If you want insurance for your home, business, or automobile, you must determine the best insurance agency for your requirements.

Here are some clear signs that help you choose a good insurance company.

1. Problem-solving:
A good insurance company can come up with creative solutions to your problems. You should ensure that the agency helps its clients with the right insurance plan according to their needs. If you get the right solutions, the insurance company is rated outstanding.

2. Genuine:
You should know that unethical insurance agents only stay in business for a short time. You can check the experience and reviews of old customers of an insurance company to determine whether they are transparent & genuine.

3. Ease of doing business:
If you can easily access an insurance company's product, you can put them in the category of a good insurance company. Some other factors that make the interaction between clients and insurance agents more seamless include online claim reporting, online bill pay, billing questions, policy changes, 24x7 customer service, and social media platforms.

4. Vast technical knowledge:
An excellent general insurance company knows how to sell its policy and win its customers' trust. You should expect that your insurance agency can instantly answer all your insurance, law, and tax queries. They must know income tax preparation, financial planning, and some other avenues of financial service to help their clients with their financial situations.

5. Customers delight:
You will feel encouraged to buy their product when you meet an agent or a team from a good general agency. Most good insurance agents are eager and excited, which makes it interesting and easier for clients to understand the details of their products.

6. Emotional intelligence:
If your insurance agency listens and empathises with clients, they can help you clear up your financial situation when you encounter a loss due to an accident. A good insurance agent is sensitive and able to understand the needs of their clients.

7. Good customer service:
Customer service doesn't mean being available at all times, but it should also solve your problems and satisfactorily answer your questions. Check whether the customer care team timely responds to their client's inquiries via phone, chat, or video calls. You may also go through the company's online reviews to get a clearer picture of their customer service.

8. A wide array of products:
If your agency offers comprehensive products and services that meet your specific needs, you can call them a good insurance company. You should check that they offer a wide assortment of general insurance, including motor, health, home, travel, commercial, and more. You should also look for optional features in the general insurance plan and decide on its requirements to get comprehensive coverage.

9. Sense of urgency:
A good agency has robust SOPs and processes for quick insurance approval. Consider the agency's time to explain its products and services, the application process, and other factors. You should check how fast your insurance agency can provide the claim money when needed.

Look for these signs in your general insurance company and decide whether they are the best agency for you. Choose the right insurance company that offers a wide array of general insurance products. You can benefit from the insurance plan if you encounter a loss or damage to your life, vehicle, home, or business.

Click HERE to know more about the best general insurance company in India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

If you're looking for answers to some frequently asked questions about two wheeler insurance, look no further. According to the Indian Motor Vehicles Act, every two-wheeler and four-wheeler owner must have third-party coverage. As a result, you must get either standalone bike insurance or a comprehensive bike insurance plan if you wish to cover the damages your bike sustains in accidents.

Many individuals need clarification on the numerous facets of a bike insurance policy. Therefore, we are addressing many concerns about a two wheeler insurance plan in this post in the form of some frequently asked questions.

1. What paperwork is necessary to submit an insurance claim for a two-wheeler?
Depending on your coverage and the damage experienced, you may need specific papers to submit a two-wheeler insurance claim. However, the necessary documents required to submit a two-wheeler insurance claim are summarised below:

● A current insurance policy agreement

● R.C. papers

● Driving licence copy

● As reported to the local police, a First Information Report (FIR)

● Pictures that were taken at the scene of the accident

● Other supporting records, if any

2. How much is my two-wheeler worth, and how is that determined?
Insured Declared Value (IDV), to which you are referring in this sentence, is the maximum sum for which you will be compensated if your two-wheeler is stolen or lost in its entirety. The manufacturer's suggested retail price determines the IDV of two wheeler, which is then depreciation-adjusted. Similarly, the IDV for non-factory-installed items is determined separately if they need to be added to the coverage at an additional expense.

3. What steps are involved in renewing my bike insurance?
Nowadays, it's effortless to renew your bike insurance thanks to the online renewal process of two-wheeler insurance. Most insurers notify the policyholder of the policy's expiration date in advance. Therefore, to renew your bike insurance online, go to the insurance company's website and complete a few easy steps. In addition, you can renew the insurance offline by going to your insurer's office or getting in touch with customer service.

4. Which situations fall under a bike insurance policy's exclusions?
The policy wordings for bike insurance coverage include specific information about the exclusions. Before purchasing your bike insurance policy, reading and comprehending the exclusions is crucial. It is advised to get clarification if there are any questions about the exclusions in your bike insurance policy.
Here is a list of typical exclusions that can be encountered while filing a two-wheeler insurance claim:

● Getting behind the handlebar when intoxicated

● Riding a motorcycle without having insurance

● Driving without a valid licence

● Nuclear risks-related harm

● War-related damage

5. What kind of additional coverage is offered for my two-wheeler?
You must purchase comprehensive coverage that includes any injury or damage to a third party and any harm to your two-wheeler if you want to protect it adequately. Similar to the above, an add-on policy like Zero Depreciation would guarantee the total amount of your valid claim is paid without considering the depreciation factor.
Repairs and replacements of certain parts made of plastic, fibre, glass, etc., are priced on a depreciation basis under IRDA regulations.

6. Where can I find the policy number for my bike insurance?
When you purchase a two-wheeler insurance policy, you will receive policy documents having the policy number for your bike insurance. The correspondence letters, emails, etc., that your insurer sends you regularly include your bike insurance policy number as a reference.

7. Why should I purchase online two-wheeler insurance?
The advantages of purchasing insurance online include the following:

● Comparing prices and assessing coverage alternatives on a free and user-friendly platform.

● A quick and helpful customer service team can address any issues.

● Post-sale services that are prompt and trustworthy.

● Assistance with the claims and related issues as soon as possible.

These are the most commonly asked questions when purchasing bike insurance which offer you good clarity about the application process, claim settlement, premium, inclusions and exclusions, types of bike insurance, renewal details, and much more. Let's get ready to buy your bike insurance today!

Click HERE to buy bike insurance and stay stress-free.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Tulsi is a popular houseplant in India and is worshipped by people as a religious practice in different parts of the country. You can find a dedicated area for the tulsi plant if you visit the traditional Indian houses. But things have changed a lot nowadays, and people have also started keeping a tulsi plant in their apartments for its many benefits.

Having a tulsi plant at home can have many benefits, including calmness and happiness to the house. According to the ancient Vastu Shastra and Ayurveda, tulsi can benefit you in the following ways:

1. Tulsi leaves have medicinal values:
According to Ayurveda, tulsi leaves contain various medicinal properties. Taking tulsi leaves with honey can heal common coughs and colds. Moreover, tulsi leaves possess various natural antioxidants that kill free radicals in the body and improve the immune system. Regular consumption of tulsi leaves can help manage stress and high blood pressure. Notably, tulsi leaves feature multiple benefits without any side effects on your body.

2. Bring happiness to marital life:
It is believed that maintaining a tulsi plant in the east or northeast corner of your home can bring positive energy. As per the Vastu, a tulsi plant eliminates stress and brings happiness to your conjugal life. Gradually, your life will become happier and more peaceful.

3. Tea with tulsi leaves:
Tulsi can make your tea more refreshing and nourishing. Restaurants usually use dried basil to prepare such tea. But you can use fresh leaves if you have a tulsi plant. Tea is a source of various antioxidants, which improve your immunity, and when you add tulsi to it, the level of such minerals and antioxidants increases. The combination of tulsi and tea creates a warm beverage with many health benefits.

4. Insect repellent:
Many homeowners find themselves subjected to frequent insect attacks, and it often becomes annoying to tackle them. People use different kinds of toxic chemicals to remove insects, though these chemicals may harm pets and children in the house. Tulsi is a natural insect repellent, and your house can stay protected from mosquitoes, flies, and many other insects if you have this plant in your balcony garden.

5. Tulsi brings prosperity:
In Hindu mythology, the Tulsi plant has been represented as the form of the goddess Lakhsmi. So, it is believed that having a tulsi plant in the east or northeast part of the home brings good luck and prosperity. Having a tulsi plant in the house can protect you from unnecessary financial expenses. Also known as the queen of herbs, the tulsi eliminates negativity and spreads positive energy to the home.

How can you have a tulsi plant in your apartment? The tulsi plant needs direct sunlight for 4-5 hours a day. You can keep it on the window sill or balcony, where it can receive a good amount of sunlight.

So, these are some benefits of having a tulsi plant at home. Overall, people believe that tulsi brings peace, happiness, wellness, and good luck to a house. Your house will become a more beautiful place to live, though you must remember to invest in the best home insurance policy in India for financial peace during unexpected circumstances.

Click HERE to buy the best home insurance policy in India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

From commuting to the office to planning a road trip with friends, having your vehicle is a worthwhile investment. However, there are certain rules and regulations you should keep in mind when driving a vehicle. A valid driving licence and insurance are essential to driving a vehicle on Indian roads, and vehicles that lack these important documents are subjected to fines and punishments.

But there are times when you can lose your motor insurance policy documents accidentally. What should be the right measure in the situation? While, your insurance company will guide you through the whole procedure, we help you here with all the basic things to keep in mind.

What are the immediate steps to take after losing your insurance papers?

If you've misplaced or lost your insurance papers, then the immediate steps to take are mentioned below:

1. File an FIR at the nearest station:
The First Information Report (FIR) is important for obtaining duplicate insurance papers. Once you have lost your insurance papers, go to the nearest police station and file an FIR. Report all the necessary details to the officer in charge. Once you've done that, get a copy of the report to keep with you.

2. Apply to the insurance company:
The next step involves the submission of the application to your insurance company. You must submit a written application with details like the policyholder's name, policy number, kind of coverage, and date of issuance, among others. You should also mention the reason for the loss of the documents. The application also requires the photocopy of the FIR to be provided with the documents.

While there are no restrictions on claim filing, it may not be a good idea to do so frequently for the reasons mentioned below:

3. Publish an advertisement:
It is also required to publish an advertisement announcing the loss of your insurance papers. It is to be done in a newspaper so that all the details can be covered for a wider reader base. The details to be included are:

● Registration number of the two-wheeler

● Insurance policy number

● Name of the insurance company

● Name of the policyholder

You will cover the cost of it all. Once the newspaper publication is done, attest a copy of the same with the other documents to the insurance company.

4. The signing of the indemnity bond:
The last step is a bit complicated. Through this, you will be asked to sign an indemnity bond. It will be done on a judicial stamp paper and requires your signature. This bond will be your official request to the insurance company for issuing the duplicate policy documents of your insurance. This bond also states that if you find the original policy documents, you will inform the insurer and return the documents. The signing should be done with the presence of two witnesses. All the necessary details should be provided as well.

After the bond is signed, the insurance company will investigate the matter and verify everything. Once everything is done, a duplicate set of insurance papers will be issued to you.

Following these steps will get you the duplicate papers of your motor insurance in case you've misplaced or lost it. Make sure to apply to your concerned motor insurance company in India to avoid further delays. Also, always be alert and keep your insurance papers safe to minimise the risks of theft or misplacing them.

Click HERE to buy insurance from the best motor insurance company in India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Technology has significantly advanced in recent years, with almost all businesses, including the auto and insurance industries, adapting to technology principles to drive better results and more scalability.

While the auto industry has made great strides in autonomous driving, the insurance sector has also started to offer motor insurance plans that charge customised premiums using various telematics systems. After being extensively available in many nations worldwide, these insurance policies have recently become popular in India.

What impact does telematics have on the motor insurance sector?

Telematics, once a specialised element, is now permeating the mainstream of the car and insurance industries. A growing number of motor insurers have started to give customers the choice of usage-based insurance with telematics.

The automobile sector is experiencing an acceleration in innovation because of the surprising boost of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), which are creating new opportunities to enhance customer experiences. Telematics-powered usage-based insurance (UBI) is a key component of this push toward digitalisation.

How does it work?

GPS and other technologies are used by telematics to track user driving through a gadget put in the car or a mobile app. You might reduce your rate by driving more safely with telematics or GPS box insurance.

The telematics model initially gained popularity in the auto insurance industry because of its capacity to monitor vehicle usage using devices that can be operated using smartphones. Usage Based Insurance (UBI), a recent development among auto insurers, offers four distinct types based on driving behaviour:

● Pay As You Drive

● Pay How You Drive

● Control Your Drive

● Distance-based insurance

How is the cost of insurance determined using telematics?

Traditionally, the type of your car is one of the factors considered when determining the rate for your motor insurance policy. As a result, if two people own the same make and model of car, their insurance premiums will probably be similar. But what if one of the two drivers is a more sensible and responsible driver? Should they still be subject to the same premiums?

A usage-based or telematics-based auto insurance coverage can be useful in this situation. In a usage-based auto insurance policy, the insurance providers use various telematics tools and connect them to the vehicle's GPS. They can monitor the drivers' driving behaviour and reward them with benefits. The device tracks your car's mileage, average speed, gasoline consumption, fuel economy, and driving safety.

The gathered information is sent to your insurer over the cellular network. Your insurance premium is determined after the insurance provider analyses the data it has received. Your motor insurance premiums will be lower if you drive safely or do not use your car frequently.

Challenges:
Insurers can use telematic devices to gain information about a customer's driving habits because they capture real-time data. As telematics devices need to be added to or retrofitted into cars and data needs to be collected and kept, this raises data privacy issues. Before being subjected to extensive analysis to produce actionable insights, data is frequently shared with several parties.

Benefits of telematics insurance:
Telematics in auto insurance may significantly reduce friction throughout the insurance supply chain, particularly underwriting, customer service, and claims management. One potential result from telematics as a whole is a considerably closer bond with insurers and the consumer base that boosts customer loyalty.

How is telematics transforming the future of motor insurance?
Every business, from the car to aviation, has embraced technology to create cutting-edge products that will win over customers. Like other businesses, the insurance sector has begun integrating modern technologies into its daily operations to make it simpler for customers to access and purchase policies.

Speaking of the motor insurance industry, it has seen a significant transition recently. Technology has significantly impacted this sector, from IoT telematics-based premium computation to new insurance products. The change will be evident soon and will reap exceptional outcomes.

Click HERE to buy the best motor insurance in India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Carrying out activities such as phone recharges, bill payments, grocery shopping, clothes shopping, etc. has become very common. All the activities are getting digitalized now, and so is the case with general insurance policies. There are various platforms where you can generate an instant general insurance online quote as well as purchase a new policy.

In present times, a lot of people prefer to buy insurance policy online. Although the online purchase of insurance policies may not be everyone’s cup of tea, yet there are some significant advantages of buying an insurance policy online after generating a general insurance online quote.

In case you are wondering why people buy insurance policy online, here are the reasons which encourage them to do so: -

•Time-saving: - You do not have to go through the hectic processes of going to the company’s office and get the process completed. The offline process lasts several days whereas, through the online process, everything is just a few clicks away.

•Lower premiums: - The premiums to be paid are quite higher for the insurance policies purchased offline than the policies that are purchased online. Thus, the online method is pocket-friendly as well.

•Easy comparison: - When looking for an insurance policy online, comparing becomes easier. You can compare general insurance online quote from all the companies at once without having to go through any trouble. You can look for yourself and choose the company that suits you the most.

•Freedom to decide: - Everything is done on your own, so you are the one making the decisions. There is no manipulation or pressure from the company when you purchase an insurance policy online. You are the sole decision-maker without any external influence.

•Less paperwork: -Purchasing an insurance policy online reduces the amount of paperwork to be completed. The offline method involves a lot of paperwork which can be quite troublesome. The online saves you from it, and the entire experience becomes hassle-free.

•Informed decision making: - You can also view the customer reviews for the policy that you are going to buy. Before finally buying the policy, you can search for the reviews of other customers to check if you can trust the company and the policy.

•Fewer chances of rejection: - The chance of rejection due to incorrect or incomplete details becomes negligible under the online mode. This is probably where the offline method becomes troublesome, where the forms can be rejected multiple times for some trivial issues.

•Easy and convenient: - The processes of purchasing a new policy and paying the premiums can be completed with just a few clicks in case of the online mode. In the older times, buying policies was all about personal interaction and a buildup of trust following the interaction. The customer was convinced by the representative of the insurance

•Informed decision making: - You can also view the customer reviews for the policy that you are going to buy. Before finally buying the policy, you can search for the reviews of other customers to check if you can trust the company and the policy.

company and after various processes, the final buying of the insurance policy took place. However, in the online purchase procedure, everything is digitalized and available on your device with an internet connection.

Though, the digitalized ways of selling and buying insurances policies online lack the old ways of building up a sense of trust in the customer. The customers do everything on their own in such cases through the online portals of insurance companies, based on their brand image and terms and conditions.

The new method is not appreciated by all sections of the public, and many of them still prefer traditional methods. So, if you are looking to buy insurance policy then you should weigh all the pros and cons of both the methods and choose the one which suits you and your ideas the most.

Almost everyone today owns a car, which means they would most probably either already have a car insurance policy or would be looking to buy one soon.

For those who plan to buy one, there are many things to consider. Since the policy would provide financial cover in the event of an accident, either for the repairs/ any bodily harm, or both, hence, you must do all the necessary research. One should choose an insurance policy that not only suits your needs the best but also offers maximum coverage.

Here are five mistakes that most people tend to make when buying car insurance: -

• Opting for a low premium: The premium is the amount you regularly pay to the insurance company towards the policy, and often, many people choose a policy that comes with a lower premium.
• Comparing policies only based on price: Car insurance prices in India vary from company to company, and while paying a low premium might seem easy on the pocket, but you may not get a lot of benefits or the needed coverage out of it. Before you pay any amount, make sure to go over different policies, compare them, and then choose the one which offers maximum coverage.
• Not registering the vehicle: As a car owner, you must register the car or transfer the ownership to yourself since that is the only way to make the insurance claims when needed. While many forget to do so, others purposefully avoid it, to not pay the taxes, and end up not benefiting from the insurance policy.
• Not doing enough research: While asking friends and family or the car dealership about suitable car insurance is always a good idea, it would be stupid not to do the research yourself. You must make sure to go over different car insurance policies and compare their terms and benefits before you choose the one that suits you best. If you do not do so, you might end up paying higher than necessary or might opt for a policy that does not offer optimum coverage.
• Not reading the policy: Whether you are yet to select a car insurance policy or are about to sign on one, one of the worst mistake that you can commit is not reading the terms, conditions, and coverage of the policy. Unless you read it thoroughly, you will not know what it does and doesn’t cover, how much you need to pay, when and how much you would need to pay out of your pocket in some cases, etc.
• Not updating the policy: There are always changes in your everyday life, which in turn influence the kind of car insurance you would need (it could be related to where you live or work, where you drive most often, the rate of theft around your area, etc.). When you choose an insurance policy, you will go with the one whose terms and coverage align with your lifestyle, and thus, it makes sense to update your policy if there are any changes in your everyday life.

Keep in mind that the car insurance prices in India will differ everywhere, as will the terms, thus making it very important to research thoroughly before buying such a policy.

When truth and transparency are the core of a general insurance company, you know you are in trustworthy hands. This is the way of life at Magma HDI, and the fundamental reason it has been able to sell 1 million policies in FY19, as on February 21, 2019.

Having started operations only in 2012, Magma HDI has managed to build a strong reputation as a key player in the Indian insurance industry in a short span of time. It has steadily climbed growth charts with close to 1,000 employees, 135+ branches and 5,000-plus partners from about 180 employees, 46 branches and 500 partners back in the year of its commencement.

So, what have been the key differentiators responsible for this success?

The foremost reason is the company's utmost focus on honesty and transparency. When you choose Magma HDI, you get exactly what you have signed up for.

What's more, your struggle with endless, incomprehensible TnCs is over. Magma HDI believes in minimal TnCs that have important clauses highlighted. There are no hidden charges, and all costs are revealed to you upfront.

The company has a wide range of retail and commercial products on offer that suit requirements of all kinds of buyers. It has over 50 products across categories to choose from and has issued more than 24 lakh general insurance policies till date.

The foundation on which Magma HDI has been able to build its standing is its high claim- settlement ratio. Magma HDI has settled 94.1% of claims generated in FY 17-18 compared to the industry average of 87.2%. Owing to this, Magma HDI has successfully settled more than 1.25 lakh general insurance claims till date.

Additionally, the claim settlement process is absolutely hassle-free. Almost 87.17% claims made in FY 17-18 were settled in less than 30 days compared to the industry average of 62.1%.

A good insurance provider must not only assure you and your loved ones of a safety net in times of need, but also offer you the much-needed peace of mind that the promises made to you will be kept. To check both these parameters off your list, go ahead with a trusted partner such as Magma HDI.

Health insurance is something that every single person should have at all times, so they are protected from any unnecessary or substantial expenses in case there is any harm to life or threat to health. However, before you go with a particular health insurance policy, you need to have all the necessary information about it, such as the premium to be paid, the coverage, the validity, exceptions, etc.

You need to make sure to choose only the best health insurance policy in India, not just for yourself but also your family. Here are five reliable sources to learn about health insurance; you end up making the right choice: -

• A Health Insurance Agent: One of the best sources to learn about health insurance is an agent. A health insurance agent is well aware of all the terms and conditions of the different policies and can provide you with all the information you need. Whether it is about the premium you need to pay, find out about all that it covers, and doesn’t, what fees you need to pay, what some other benefits are, etc. Agents know about the policies of their own company and can also give you some vital information about health insurance in general.
• Your doctor: Your general physician, or the doctor you have been going to for years and who has all your health records, is another excellent source of information when it comes to health insurance. Since they are quite involved in the health industry, they would be able to advise you on what the insurance policy must cover depending upon the condition of your health.
• Your place of work: It might not seem as if your employer would have information about health insurance, but that is not true. Many companies provide their employees with health insurance or pay for a significant part of it, and thus have a lot of information about health insurance in general. If you are seeking information about health insurance, your employer might be able to help, especially since companies keep detailed records of such policies. If you work in the healthcare industry, you have an added advantage.
• The Internet: With almost everything available on the internet, it is not difficult to find the best health insurance policy in India online, given the number of insurance company websites as well as general websites that compare different policies. You have the option of going through the websites of different health insurance companies and collecting information about the various policies, or you can read different articles that compare health insurance policies, and then find out more about some particular ones. The internet is an excellent source of information for everything, including health insurance.
• Your Family: Believe it or not, your family members can help you choose the best policy for you and your family. Since they have been through the process of finding a good insurance policy numerous times, they can help you understand the terms and conditions and can help you find one which suits your needs the best. However, be sure to verify it with an agent.

Having Health insurance is extremely important, and so, you must only consult with the most reliable sources when finding out about it; having inadequate or incorrect information can prove to be detrimental in the future.

We understand your fears and apprehensions and here’s what we have done to put an end to them, Magma HDI General Insurance’s range of policies for your health and assets:

1. Insurance is no longer tedious

It’s as easy as shopping online. Get a quick quote for general insurance policies CLICK HERE

2. Claims settlement is now transparent

We ensure a fair, transparent, and convenient claim settlement process.

In FY 18-19, Magma HDI has maintained a claim settlement ratio of 91.85% as compared to the industry average of 87.2%.

Our customer service wing works round the clock to have your queries addressed irrespective of the time of the day.

3. Perplexing T&Cs demystified

We believe in highlighting the important clauses of the Terms & Conditions,

You deserve simple hassle free claims!

At Magma HDI, ”Truth must be told” is the foundation of everything we do. Magma HDI has always attempted to change the game through significant efforts in making the claiming process simpler and less tedious. Securing the things most precious to you has never been this stress-free.

Accidents are always unfortunate, and you can never foresee when you might face such a circumstance, but it is always better to protect yourself from such unfortunate situations by getting a Personal Accident Insurance. You can easily buy personal accident insurance online by visiting the website of the insurance provider under which you want to get insured. If you have a Personal Accident Insurance, you will be able to protect yourself from huge inpatient hospitalization expenses and corresponding medical bills that can spend all your life savings in case you are met with an accident. You need to keep in mind certain things when you buy a Personal Accident Insurance: -

• Buy personal accident insurance online with a premium amount that covers your needs while not putting heavy stress on your financial stability.
• Compare the different Personal Accident Policies provided by different insurance companies and choose the one that fits your requirements the best.
• Select a policy that can be renewed online easily without having to visit the insurance company’s office.
• Personal Accident Insurance policies can provide you safety from sudden financial mishaps that can occur if you face an accident. Along with this, some of the reasons you should consider buying a Personal Accident Insurance are:
• You have any disability taken care of - If you have a Personal Accident Cover, you will be able to claim compensation for any kind of disability that you may face in the aftermath of an accident. The insurer will get appropriate compensation from the insurance provider if they suffer the loss of income due to their disability. You can avail compensation for Permanent Total Disability as well as Permanent Partial Disability.
• Accidental Death Benefit - This is one of the major advantages and the most important reason why you should get a Personal Accident Insurance. In case of accidental death of the insured, the insurance company is liable to 100% of the insured amount to the nominee which are generally Class I legal heirs such as a spouse, son, daughter, mother or father.
• Medical Expenses are taken care of - If you suffer an accident, medical expenses cost can be very high and can finish up all your life savings in a very short span of time. A Personal Accident Insurance will provide you protection from such expenses as the insurance company will take care of the medical expenses of the insured. In case of demise of the insured, the company will also take care of the funeral expenses of the deceased.
• Family Security - In case the accident leads to the death or permanent disability of the person and that person is the sole earner for the whole family, a Personal Accident Insurance will provide security to the insured’s family. This will not only provide the family with funds to support them but also shield them from any hospital expenses that will be incurred if the person is hospitalized.
• Child Education Benefit - Some insurance companies also cover the educational expenses of children under child education cover in case of death or total disablement of the person insured. Under this cover, the company will be liable to pay some amount per child, to a maximum of two children for their educational expenses.

Buying personal accident insurance online not only protects the insured but also guarantees protection and security to the family of the insured in case the person is faced with permanent disability leading to loss of income. It is always a good idea to get a Personal Accident Cover, whether individually or along with your other insurance policies for your car or bike.

A lot of people around the world work hard and save their income to one day purchase a car. A car provides you with much more freedom and mobility than local transport. Having your vehicle allows you to do things according to your schedule. You will not have to schedule your entire day according to local transport timings, nor will you be stuck in long lines and crowded transportation services. You can be wherever you want, whenever you want to be. It is beneficial for family trips and casual outgoings. Having your car will also provide you with much more feasibility during an emergency.

Getting your car insured is very important after purchasing it. The Government has made it mandatory for vehicles to be insured. If you are caught by an official and are not able to produce a hard copy of your car insurance, then you will be fined and may even have to serve a prison sentence. If your car is not yet insured, you can get it insured online. You can obtain car insurance quotes online from different insurance providers and choose whatever works best for you. Before finalizing the deal here are five things you must know that nobody might have told you about car insurance quotes:-

• You will get different car insurance quotes from different companies. All companies have their algorithm to reach the amount they are going to charge you. These algorithms use various factors and are developed by top actuaries.
• You can get discounts on your quotation. Before signing the contract, you must make sure you are getting all possible discounts for your car insurance. There are various discounts offered by insurance providers, and they differ from one institution to another.
• You must make sure that the current quotation will cover all third party liabilities as well as damages to your car. Some insurance companies may try to lure you by sending you low quotes while not providing complete coverage. Before signing the contract, you must always make sure that you are getting comprehensive coverage from the insurance.
• You must enquire whether the quotation amount will decrease if you pay the amount in a lump sum. Most of the companies give attractive discounts if you pay an annual or semi-annual lump sum amount. This discount adds up over a long time and will save you a considerable amount of money over time
• You will get higher quotes from branded insurance providers. You can find right insurance providers that are not branded that provide sufficient coverage and have cheaper quotes. This does not stand to mean that branded insurance providers are bad. They sometimes have needless coverage amounts to justify their quotations. Often when involved in an accident, you will not require that much coverage. Non-branded insurance providers will work well for you. Before signing a contract, make sure everything is in order and that your coverage is enough to cover for most damages.

Knowing these five facts will help you get the best insurance policy for your car. Having insurance is not a license to drive recklessly. Some people put themselves and their surroundings in danger as they know they will get coverage if they get into an accident. It is your responsibility as a good citizen to drive safely and within proper guidelines.

Thanks to the technology, computers or the smart phone in your hand filing a claim has never been easier.

For instance in case your vehicle meets with an accident and when you make a claim, Magma HDI trusts you and lets you take charge of the process . You don’t have to fill lengthy forms, attach documents of proof, or undergo a tedious process in getting your claim registered. All you need to do is attach a soft copy of your request and documentation and email us, or better yet! Fill your claim form online.

You can simply conduct a quick self-survey by clicking pictures of the damage vehicle with your smartphone, send it to Magma HDI’s online ‘Claim Updation’, and before you get home, the customer support ninjas at Magma HDI would have begun actioning your request.

The support staff operates 24x7, 365 days a year, ensuring your insurance claims are processed faster and these minor mishaps don’t create roadblocks in your life’s plans.

Apart from your faith and testimonial, we also have numbers backing us, higher percentages just don’t make for an excellent report card! They also account for credible insurance providers., Magma HDI has been able to outclass general insurance industry average in claim settlements. While the general insurance industry averages 87.2%, Magma HDI notched ahead at 91.8% in FY 18-19, with only 8.15% outstanding claims. The extremely convenient and efficient claim settlement procedure at Magma HDI has ensured less than 30-day claim settlement for almost 87.17% of the total claims made in the year.

We believe that you should be in control when it comes to making a claim or registering a service. Insurance is built on trust, if there is a one-stop general insurance partner who understands your needs and empowers you with total transparency, look no further than Magma HDI.