GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Side hustles are the new rage that has taken over the world in recent years. Irrespective of one's age, many resources on the internet can guide you to finding the perfect side income generator. There's an idea for everyone, from remote online jobs to small-scale dropshipping businesses. And all this depends on the investment you wish to make and the time available.

Suppose you are intrigued by putting in a few hours of work from your schedule into a business that does not require much capital and involves engaging with young children. In that case, a babysitting business may be what you're looking for. While specialised businesses provide similar services, you can even run it from home, catering to your neighbourhood clients.

All you will need is some basic know-how about babysitting and a secure home covered by the best home insurance policy in India. Insurance is important to safeguard your most valuable asset from uninvited circumstances.

Here are some tips to kickstart your babysitting business from home.

1. Is babysitting a viable business?
The first thing you must consider before starting any business is the expected returns. A babysitting business based out of your home is akin to a profit-making machine from inception. Your client base would be limited to your locality, and you can save on the most significant expense of renting a space for business.
Since it is a home-run business, you can decide on the specific services provided with minimum cost, making it a profitable business. Based on your services and client reach, you can expand your business quickly by following our tips.

2. Spread the word:
We live in a world where purchases are primarily affected by customer reviews. Therefore, making your brand known and getting the first few clients is essential. The first step to starting your babysitting business is to create an advertisement that looks similar to a resume.
Its primary purpose is to build trust and inform potential clients of the services offered. Pick out timings and offerings that are customer-focused which entice the people to enquire about your business. The key to scaling a home business is to create awareness and hype about it.

3. Precisely describe your services:
Be very specific when providing details regarding your services. Ensure that you specify the age groups you cater to, what timings you babysit for, and every service you intend to deliver. This could include pick-ups and drops, meal provisions, or extra academic attention to older kids. Also, state the exact pricing per hour to avoid confusion.

4. Get additional training:
While certifications are not necessary for babysitters in India, a professional certificate of approval works wonders in building trust, authenticity, and credibility. There is no official comprehensive course you can get to make you better at the job. Look for short-term classes on child development, medical training, and other relevant studies that can help your business.

Finally, get your house ready…
Babysitting is a job that requires excellent trust from parents in their chosen babysitter. Even when babysitters volunteer to provide their services at the client's home, a thorough interview and background check is conducted on potential service providers. Expect the same for your business. Encourage interested parents to check out your place of operations for reassurance while showcasing your confidence.

Before you fix a date:
1. Ensure that you have made all the necessary arrangements.
2. Keep your home tidy and safe for kids of all ages.
3. Have some engaging toys on display and recreate the general atmosphere of a daycare business that is exciting and safe for kids. You should also consider purchasing the best home insurance policy in India since your home is no longer just a residence but also a fully functioning business.

Following these essential tips, you can start your babysitting business from home and eventually cater to a more extensive clientele!

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.

India is a diverse country with rich history, culture, and traditions, making it a worthy place for tourists. The tourism industry of India has been booming in the last couple of years and is marking a strong comeback post-pandemic. People from far and wide are visiting the country to witness its beauty, elegance, and charm. From the grand Taj to the charming little town of Darjeeling, India receives immense tourism every year.

The travel sector in India is upgrading itself to satisfy the changing requirements and interests of travellers. One such emerging aspect is ecotourism. Ecotourism is one of the growing segments of tourism in India. If you want to know more about ecotourism, this article is for you.

When embarking on an ecotourism journey, ensure that you prioritise your safety. And you can achieve this by purchasing online general insurance to add a safety net to your travel.

What is Ecotourism?
The main objective of ecotourism is to focus on mother nature and promote the ecosystem's sustainability. It facilitates a healthy relationship with nature and its elements to ensure that tourists spend more time preserving the environment. It promotes sustainable activities that are mostly outdoor and prohibits any action that can harm the environment.

Why is Ecotourism gaining pace in India?
India has a diverse variety of flora and fauna and is home to several zoological parks, wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, biological reserves, and botanical gardens. The country has been able to save its natural beauty till now.

With ecotourism, it aims to do it further by maintaining and promoting sustainable activities not only in wildlife sanctuaries but also in high mountains, and lush green valleys.

What are the advantages of Ecotourism?
In a naturally rich country like India, ecotourism is an ever-growing tourism segment. It also encourages plenty of other natural initiatives that contribute to the well-being of the ecosystem. The several advantages of eco-tourism are:

● The sole preservation of flora and fauna

● It generates awareness about the tribal communities and brings them into the limelight

● It is a significant platform for raising awareness about social and environmental issues in a particular area

● It is a great field for generating revenues. The revenues earned here can be utilised in the development of the country

● The remote and lesser-known areas of the country are developed under eco-tourism

● Tourists are made familiar with the diverse species of flora and fauna thriving in the country

● Tourists spend more time outdoors with nature and communities

● It develops a loving relationship with nature

Ecotourism is gaining momentum rather quickly in India. In the coming years, you can expect it to emerge as a pivotal activity that preserves the heritage and maintains sustainable tourism at local destinations. If you're a nature lover or love exploring the unknown, then ecotourism will greatly benefit you. You can undertake many activities, including trekking, camping, cycling, hiking, bird watching, wildlife photography, and farm stays, among others, to feel one step closer to nature's unmatched beauty!

You must understand that safety is paramount regardless of the destination you go to for your next ecotourism vacation in India. You can achieve this by investing in an online general insurance plan that caters to all your travel safety needs.

Click HERE to buy an online general insurance policy.

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.

veryone enjoys travelling and exploring new places, both domestic and overseas. You may be an occasional or frequent traveller; however, irrespective of your travel frequency, it is crucial to get travel insurance to enjoy your trip and put your mind at ease.

Choosing which travel insurance to purchase is never easy for anyone planning a trip overseas. While some travellers prefer purchasing single-trip coverage, others favour purchasing a multi-trip annual protection policy. Generally, those who travel abroad for extended periods (more than 90 days) and those who aren't likely to do so more than once a year should opt for a single-trip policy.

On the other hand, the yearly policy is intended for those who visit foreign countries more than once each year or plan frequent trips within the country. Inconveniences to your travel plans, such as flight delays, trip cancellations, and medical crises, are, nevertheless, covered by these travel protection policies.

Selecting appropriate travel insurance can be tricky for you. Here's how to pick a suitable policy to get the best benefits for your travel needs.

What is the difference between a single trip and a multi-trip travel insurance policy?
The single-trip travel insurance policy offers financial protection against exigencies for only one trip, whether it is domestic or international. This plan provides coverage for only up to 180 days. You can buy this travel insurance for multiple destinations by considering it a single trip. The validity of this plan begins once you board a flight to leave your home country and ends when you return to your home country or when the policy period ends. You can buy general insurance online with different duration of coverage according to your travel needs.

Ask the insurer about the single-trip policy's coverage duration and the benefits you might get. Generally, single-trip travel insurance provides financial support for passport loss, robbery or baggage loss, home burglary protection, hospitalisation expenses, flight delays, and loss of travel documents and personal items.

On the other hand, multi-trip travel insurance plans offer coverage for a specified period, usually for a year. This travel insurance policy provides money to support multiple trips you make under the same plan. It offers coverage for the loss of a passport, emergency medical expenses, and trip cancellation. However, some policies have different coverage periods varying from 30 to 70 days.

What to consider when buying a travel insurance policy?
Both travel insurance policies have similar coverage but differ in duration. It would be best if you chose a general insurance policy depending on the number of trips you want to take in a year. Moreover, consider some factors, like where you go on your trip. Some insurance companies offer separate coverage for some countries and exclude others.

Also, consider what you are going to do abroad. If you do activities like snorkelling or playing football, you will need a particular type of cover. Your travel insurance should also consider your pre-existing medical condition to get coverage for all medical emergencies.

You should also consider the cancellation coverage in your travel insurance plan. It helps you pay for the pre-paid cost of your trip. Consider if the plan offers coverage for lost bags, personal items, and other possessions by your airline. It is crucial to note all the factors before finalising which travel insurance to purchase.

*Pro-tip
Buy general insurance online as it will help you efficiently deal with the duration of the vacation, medical expenses, insurance plan exclusions, period and limits, and trip cancellations to get all-around coverage for your next trip.

When you invest in a travel insurance policy, you have 14 days to ensure that the policy purchased is the right one. Do your best research, compare different options online, and then make the final purchase.

Click HERE to buy general insurance online.

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.

Be it the snow-capped mountains in the North or the golden sands of the Sahara in the West, India promises something for everybody and provides a wide variety of landscapes, flora and fauna. The country also hosts a wide array of activities like paragliding, surfing, trekking etc., to adventure seekers. However, in this article, we will discuss one of the lesser talked about activities, which is bird watching.

Bird watching is not just limited to spotting birds. It also gives you a better opportunity to explore nature, trees and other aspects of nature. Over the past years, owing to the growing number of endangered bird species, India has dedicated various sanctuaries for birds. These sanctuaries host a mixture of domestic and migratory birds.

Bird watching demands patience and perseverance, but the result is rewarding and exhilarating. Bird watching tours can be an excellent way to enjoy your vacations while indulging in new knowledge activities.

Let’s look at a few places in India that promise an impeccable bird watching experience.

1. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat:
Rann of Kutch sees about 300 different species of birds around the year. It is one of the largest breeding grounds for the Lesser Flamingo. Thousands of flamingos are seen flying together, making the skies a beautiful shade of pink. Short-eared owl, Syke’s lark, Greater Flamingo, Great White Pelican are just a few of the many birds that you will spot here.

2. Keoladeo national park, Rajasthan:
The Keoladeo national park is India’s most famous bird-watching site. It is located in the Bharatpur bird sanctuary and is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The small area of about 29 sq km is the feeding ground for over 400 different bird species. The wetlands have naturally formed earthen mounts to provide perching spots for birds to feed on fish and other aquatic species. The best time to visit is between December and February when migratory birds visit the sanctuary.

3. Kaziranga national park, Assam:
Famously known for its one-horned rhinoceros, Kaziranga also hosts various species of birds. Kaziranga is famous for its unmatched ecological importance. The Brahmaputra flows alongside the area making the river basin a basis for all life in the region. It has also been identified as IBA or Important Bird Area as it hosts a multitude of birds such as Jerdon’s Babbler, Black-breasted Parrotbill, Cinnamon Bittern etc.

4. Nainital, Uttarakhand:
In the Kumaon region of West Central Himalayas, one can see a wide range of different flora and fauna. Nainital is home to over 250 Himalayan bird species. The best time to visit is anywhere between November to May. Few species one can spot in Nainital are Chestnut-headed Laughingthrush, Cheer Pheasant, Greater Yellownape, etc. You can experience several walking trails for bird watching here.

5. Chilika Lake, Odisha:
Chilika bird sanctuary in Odisha is one of the most extensive winter grounds for migratory birds. It hosts some of the unique species, such as Purple Moorhen. It also hosts one of the largest breeding grounds for flamingos. The best time to visit is between October to March.

These are a few of the many opportunities you can consider to enjoy bird watching for your next vacation. As mentioned above, bird watching can seem like a tedious exercise, but the results are mesmerising. Keep in mind that you must always carry food, water, and first aid while going birding, as most of these spots are inside jungles or above hills.

Traversing through these terrains might present itself with certain challenges as well. Another essential thing to consider is to invest in general insurance plans before planning to travel. General insurance is sure to add value to your experience while also acting as a safety net for any unforeseen expenses you might face during your trip.

Click HERE to know more about general insurance plans.

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.

Owning a house is a lifelong dream for most, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Analysing the market, arranging the funds, making remodelling decisions and getting house insurance takes a lot of time and research. However, renting a house is no picnic either.

Looking for the perfect house, checking out the neighbourhood, ensuring safety, inspecting the amenities, budget, shifting, agreements, meeting the landlord, etc., are significant factors that need to be considered before making a final decision.

Whether you are a homeowner or renter, you need to get insurance. Owner's and renter's insurance have different terms and conditions, and the policies are structured accordingly.

Are you confused between the two and find it challenging to figure out their differences? Let's understand the difference between the policy of homeowners and renters with specific pointers to help you find a suitable policy for you.

1. Coverage:
While homeowner's insurance covers the building, garage and other structural amenities, the renter's insurance covers your personal belongings and property. The landlord is supposed to have insurance cover for the building.

2. Coverage cost:
The homeowner's insurance covers the cost of your home in case of a complete loss. Additionally, it also covers personal property like jewellery, appliances, apparel, etc., that gets damaged or becomes completely irretrievable due to the circumstances. On the other hand, renter's insurance only covers the replacement cost for your lost or stolen possessions on the property. It does not cover any damaged or destroyed possessions.

3. Price:
Given the coverage, it is understandable that renter's insurance is cheaper than homeowner’s. This varies due to the renter's insurance's limited scope as compared to the homeowner's.

4. Factors that are considered:
The factors that decide the price of the homeowner's policy include the type of property, the amount of personal property you need coverage for, location, etc.
For renter's insurance, the amount of personal property coverage and the area you live in are considered essential factors determining the price.

5. Other liabilities:
Homeowner's insurance incorporates personal liability coverage. This covers the legal fees if someone gets injured on your property. The homeowner's and renter's insurance cover living expenses if you need alternative accommodation solutions due to house damage, disasters, fire, etc. If you or someone else gets injured in your home, your insurance will cover their medical expenses too.

6. Which one do you need:
Renters need to verify that they get renters insurance, medical coverage and a personal liability policy. Several homeowners take renters insurance to avoid further hassle and disputes about financial loss.

In the case of renting out your property, you need to ensure that the homeowner's insurance has adequate coverage and doesn't lead to any confusion or disputes. You can always check with your insurance agent before renting out your property, whether it's a small space or a lavish villa.

Insuring your home is paramount. Never skip on the benefits that home insurances offer. Browse through different plans and purchase the best house insurance India. Make a smart investment, and rest assured.

Click HERE to know more about house insurance 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.

Travelling is the best way to explore new places and experience things you've never tried before. But often, when it comes to female travellers, it is restricted due to safety reasons. It is understandable how security is a concern for women but don't let it get in the way of your explorations.

The finest places to visit aren't always the most travelled or popular ones. Hence, we have listed some of the loveliest destinations to visit alone or with your girl gang!

1. Bali:
Bali is one of the most amazing locations for female travellers. Besides cultural tours, it is also a great destination to enjoy a beach vacation. The town's laid-back and tranquil ambience makes it safe for single female travellers. The region has a terrific atmosphere that allows you to reconnect with your inner self.

2. Hong Kong:
Regarded as one of the cities with the least crime rates globally, Hong Kong is a must-see destination for all tourists. It has reasonably priced lodging, which is a perk. The city also has one of the quickest modes of transportation, making it a travel-friendly location for solo female travellers in every manner.

3. Meghalaya:
Meghalaya gains fame from its natural splendour, but what distinguishes this state is how smoothly the matrilineal system runs here. Meghalaya treats its ladies with great respect. Not only do you feel protected in this Northeastern state, but you also get to view society from a new perspective.

4. Melbourne:
Melbourne is a secure city for women and one of the trendiest destinations to visit globally. The great cafe culture of the city makes it an attractive choice for cheerful summer holidays. This could be a perfect place for your all-girls vacation since it gives you access to luxury, peace and fun altogether.

5. Switzerland:
It's safe, gorgeous, and full of options for female travellers. Switzerland's attractions include its beautiful mountains and picturesque magnificence. The core of Switzerland is seeing the big cities and observing the cultural fusion.

6. New Zealand:
New Zealand is a beautiful island country scattered in the Pacific Ocean and one of the most fabulous destinations for women to visit alone. Its pride and glory is its stunning terrain, adorned with spectacular beaches and volcanic gems. New Zealand is a piece of heaven on Earth and one of the most fantastic places for single female vacations.

One should never face curtailment in experiencing the different cultures and people worldwide. We hope this article helps you choose the destination for your next trip with your girl gang.

But remember, wherever you travel in the world, your safety and security are in your hands. Always take the necessary precautions and carry travel insurance to cover damages to luggage, theft and other concerns that you might face while travelling. You can check the general insurance online quote from different insurance companies for competitive premiums and additional features. It is crucial for women travelling solo to protect their trip with full travel insurance to stay safe.

Click HERE to get general insurance online quote

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.

Maintaining commercial vehicles like trucks, carriers, tempos, cars, etc., can be challenging at times, but it is common knowledge that regular maintenance ensures a longer lifetime of vehicles. And missing out on these services will result in expensive repair works that can put a load on your pocket.

Hence a wise option is to follow a regular maintenance regime for your vehicle and invest in motor insurance that provides several benefits while also helping you stay on a budget.

Today, we'll look at ways to ensure your commercial vehicles stay in their best shape.

1. Keep a vehicle checklist:
Since various drivers use and drive commercial vehicles, maintaining a checklist is a good idea. This will ensure that each driver is reminded to check fuel levels, tyre pressure, brake systems, and batteries before making a trip. After the initial check is done, they will know all the shortcomings and fix them before departure.

2. Change engine oil:
Since the oil in heavy commercial vehicles can be spoiled by dust and small dirt particles, it is advisable to change it regularly. Polluted oil can affect the optimal functionality of vehicles and cause various issues during the trip that will be expensive to fix. The oil filters should also be changed frequently to avoid an accumulation of dust and other residues.

3. Engine maintenance:
Excessive smoke, decreased power, and loss of oil pressure are a few indicators of engine failure. Ensure that the engine goes through professional checks to identify any additional defects. These procedures involve exhaust temperature, monitoring engine cooling, and boost pressure.

4. Inspect tyre pressure:
For the maximum value of tyres, keeping a check on the tyre pressure is non-negotiable. Commercial vehicles do not stick to one kind of road. They traverse various terrains to cover long distances and undertake multiple business operations. Inspecting the tyre pressure is the best way to increase the life of tyres. Another way of ensuring better health is by rotating the tyres before they wear out.

5. Keep the vehicles in the shade:
Keeping commercial vehicles away from the harsh climatic conditions when they're not under operation helps maintain their shape for extended periods. If garages and sheds are not an option, you can opt for vehicle covers. They also help in keeping the chassis of the vehicle clean.

6. Train the drivers:
Training the drivers in performing minor repair works can help you reduce maintenance costs in the long run. Conducting drills on maintaining the vehicle and dealing with emergencies as a team can help them understand basic procedures and share ideas and tricks.

Compensating your drivers for putting in extra work, providing health insurance, and good living quarters is an excellent way to ensure that the drivers are well-rested and taken care of. This way, they are less likely to cause accidents.

These were a few ways to ensure the better health of your commercial vehicles. Owning a business that includes commercial vehicles comes with its own set of challenges, but regular upkeep and servicing can ensure reduced cost and investment in the long run.

Do not forget to invest in motor insurance, as it will add value to your service by providing a safety net against all expenses in an unprecedented situation such as accidents or machine failure.

Click HERE to know more about motor 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.

Every homeowner must invest in home insurance to rely upon in case of unforeseen events. It secures not only your house and its belongings but also the residents. Whether it is due to weather-related damages, unforeseen break-ins and theft, or unfortunate fires, a reliable home insurance plan can efficiently help you through these challenges.

The percentage of homes insured in India remains significantly low at a mere 1% compared to the U.K, U.S, Australia, and France, which stand at 97%. Indians still need to realise the importance of home insurance and its benefits in securing lives and properties.

While it is vital to invest in the best home insurance plan, knowing if it covers all your requirements is equally essential.

Let's look at the most common home insurance claims that homeowners usually make.

1. Fire inside the house:
Some of India's most common home insurance claims are registered for unforeseen fires. A fire can take place anywhere, anytime. Overheating of appliances in the summer heat and sparking of electric wires due to poor insulation are often the sources of fires inside the house. The interiors of a home are filled with various materials, like wood, that can quickly catch fire. These fires can be controllable only if detected in time. But, if not, they can cause irreversible damage.

2. Fire on the home property:
While fires inside the home can cause significant damage, fires on the entire residential property can be disastrous. Fires caused by gas leakages, water leakages into electric circuits, short circuits, etc., can threaten the whole structure of the house. Homeowners' losses due to these fires are overwhelming and are commonly filed as home insurance claims.

3. Break-ins and theft:
Break-ins and theft have become a common occurrence that several people nationwide complain about. Even with the most advanced, complex, and dependable security systems, thieves break in and steal valuables in the wee hours of the night. Troubled homeowners frequently seek insurance claims concerning the damages caused by these break-ins in their property.

4. Landslides and Flooding:
Many states in India face natural disasters such as landslides and flooding. These natural tragedies are another common reason for filing a home insurance claim. While the coastal areas face annual flooding, the hilly regions of the country witness frequent landslides during monsoons or deforestation. These natural disasters cause heavy damage to the properties. In such cases, home insurance plans can help manage the recovery of financial losses.

5. Man-made disasters:
While natural catastrophes cause enough property damage, human negligence can cause just as much damage. Failure of homeowners or the people living around them can threaten the home or property. Water leakage, using low-quality products, improper care of the property can destroy not only your own home but also of your neighbours.

The above are the most common home insurance claims filed by homeowners. Sudden natural or man-made events can cause significant damage to your home and life. While we can be as cautious as possible, there are unforeseen events that we cannot escape.

Investing in home insurance India secures your future from unpredictable events that can cause severe damage and losses. Stay free from the monetary stress and add value to your priceless possessions with the safety net of the proper insurance to receive good returns on your investment!

Click HERE to buy reliable home insurance 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.