GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Do you think you find yourself mislead while purchasing car insurance? Most people lack knowledge of car insurance coverage, legal terms, and exclusions. While we understand the core concepts of it can be vague, it is essential to understand the advantages and limitations of the car insurance policy. So, the best way to get to the crux of this is to read this blog until the end.

First-time car insurance buyers have numerous questions bombarding their minds and leaving them clueless about making the right choice. In this space, we will be looking at the most frequently asked questions so that you can choose the best-suited policy.

1. Is it mandatory to take a car insurance policy in India?
Yes, it is indeed mandatory. As the days pass, we witness an alarming increase in road accidents. According to the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, it is stated that while driving on Indian roads, it is essential to have a car insurance policy to drive legally. At the very least, you must possess a third-party car insurance policy.

2. Is it necessary to buy car insurance for old cars?
Whether old or new, you must purchase insurance for all types of cars. But the only thing that stands out when buying old car insurance is the premium amount. It is comparatively lower since the market value goes down as time passes.

3. What are various types of car insurance available in India?
At present, there are only two types of car insurance policies available. Third-party car insurance policy is most commonly in demand. It includes both third-party financial and legal liabilities that the policyholder is covered.
The second most popular, comprehensive car insurance, has more excellent coverage of damages. It is said to be the most efficient in terms of protection. The liabilities arising from vehicle damages of the driver/owner and third-party liabilities are covered.

4. What does no claim bonus mean in a car insurance policy?
Throughout the policy tenure, if a policyholder does not claim, then the respective insurance company issues an NCB (no claim bonus).

5. What are the additional covers?
To enhance protection, the insurance companies provide additional covers. These include engine protection, roadside assistance, and zero depreciation. This is entirely optional and, when chosen, needs an extra premium to be paid. Add-ons can be effective as an immunity booster for your insurance plans.

6. Do the online car insurance policy documents have the same validity?
Yes, both printed and online insurance policies have the same validity. You receive the documents through email if the policy is purchased online. You can save it or choose to download the same. Online car insurance has the massive benefit of having the freedom to purchase independently. You can directly visit insurance providers' websites and surf multiple options that suit your needs.
Technology is shaping the future of the insurance industry and is providing customers with the convenience and liberty of making purchases without the involvement of intermediaries. This significantly reduces the cost and makes the process hassle-free.

Investing in securing your assets is the intelligent choice to manage your finances and stay stress-free during emergencies. We are sure you have a basic idea of concepts in car insurance. And now, you can ask the right questions while you buy one upon your next renewal or new car insurance.

Click HERE to know more about the process of buying 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.

India’s cultural diversity is like no other nations. With every few sq. km, you can experience a new language, culture, values, and most importantly - food! While everything else changes, the warmth of the people of India stays unchanged. Every region organises different fairs that celebrate their culture and religion.

These fairs are essential to the cultural identity of different regions. They also provide great entertainment for tourists and boost tourism in these areas. These traditional fairs make for great family vacations where tourists can enjoy the rich heritage and different customs unknown to them.

While these cultural fairs are great for vacations, they also bring along the risk of being exposed to new environments, activities, and the potential risks of accidents. You must purchase travel insurance from a general insurance company to protect yourself and your family against such incidents.

After ensuring that you have an active travel insurance policy, you are all set to explore these famous cultural fairs to learn more about the cultural integrity of India.

1. Jaipur Literature Festival:
The Jaipur Literature Festival is a unique celebration held over five days that promotes literature, ideas, and discourse from eminent authors. It is the world’s largest free literary festival that provides a platform for intellectual discussions and for local artisans to showcase their handicrafts. The music stage is another attraction that draws massive crowds and provides a stage for up-and-coming local artists.

2. Uttarayan Festival:
The International Kite Festival, held in multiple cities of Gujarat like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Surat, draws people from all across the world. The Kite Festival begins in Uttarayan, similar to the Uttarayani Festival, which celebrates the approaching harvest season. The festival features regional Gujarati delicacies enjoyed by thousands of fairgoers.

3. Hornbill Festival:
The indigenous people of Nagaland celebrate the Hornbill Fest. The state government organises it to promote harmony amongst various tribes and protect their culture. Held in Kisama, the festival displays the varied traditions and arts of tribes.
A music festival and rock contest are also held during the same period attracting many tourists. Visiting the festival provides insight into the Naga arts, sports, music, food, culture, handicrafts, and more.

4. Rann Utsav:
Rann Utsav is celebrated in the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat. The white desert festival lasts over four months and celebrates artisans, folk dance and music, traditional handicrafts, and culture. It provides a great boost to the economy and engages visitors in a plethora of activities that keep them busy throughout their stay. The unique feature of this fair is the provision of luxurious campsites that keep visitors satisfied without compromising on luxury while enjoying the culture of Kutch.

5. Kumbh Mela:
Celebrated four times over a cycle of 12 years, the Kumbh Mela is the biggest fair organised in India. The site of the fair changes every time it occurs. The Mela at Prayag attracts the most pilgrims of the four sites. If you wish to experience religion and unified diversity, Kumbh Mela is the perfect fair to do so. The visitors to the fair come from different walks of life and come together to stay true to their religious beliefs.

6. Baisakhi Mela:
Baisakhi is the festival that celebrates the onset of spring. Similar to Makar Sankranti, it is celebrated in the state of Punjab, which is a primarily agricultural state. It marks the beginning of the Sikh New Year and begins with a round of prayers in the morning at the local Gurudwara. Langar, Bhangra, and Gidda usually follow throughout the day. The Baisakhi Mela also includes stalls set up by local artisans and local performing artists where you can enjoy the traditional vibe of Punjab.

Each region celebrates festivals differently and has its unique charm. While some are lively, others are more focused on culture and traditions. Experiencing the cultures of different regions is an unmissable opportunity that must be taken with care. The best way to do so is by purchasing an insurance policy from a general insurance company that keeps you and your family safe throughout your trip.

Click HERE to buy general insurance to keep you protected on your next trip.

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.

Nothing beats the peaceful enjoyment of a long solo drive. With the weather being nice and pleasing, it is the perfect time to plan a solo car trip to detox from the busy lifestyle and the city hustle.

But with the fun aspects of solo trips, it is also true that solo travelling is somewhat unsafe since you are going long distances all by yourself. It is crucial to acknowledge the perks of car insurance India can be beneficial during emergencies.

So, to make your travelling experience more enjoyable, here we have eleven safety tips for long-distance driving.

1. Remember to take frequent breaks:
A long drive can be entertaining but also exhausting. So, remember to take breaks from driving, get out of the car, stretch out your muscles, have quick snacks, and hydrate yourself.

2. Be careful with your luggage and cash:
When you're on a solo trip, you are basically on your own with the security of your belongings and valuables. Make sure you lock your car when you move out for a refreshing walk.

3. Interact with the local people:
Local people are the best way to know more about the place you are travelling to. Be kind and interact with the locals so they can help you have a safe journey while making your trip more memorable.

4. Have good knowledge of the policy of car insurance India:
Danger never comes with warnings. So always ensure that you cover your car under a legal insurance policy.

5. Be safe with your routes, but don't be afraid to explore:
When you're on a solo trip by car, you always have to be extra careful with the route you're taking for your adventure. While it is necessary to remain safe, don't be afraid to explore the local attractions of the places you travel and enjoy their authenticity.

6. Prepare yourself for anything unfortunate:
While travelling solo, you should always be prepared for the worst. Always carry pepper spray and/or a safety knife with you. Cases of solo travellers being attacked are common, especially in isolated places. Try staying in places where the network is working, so you can always contact the emergency services if you need to.

7. Educate yourself with the basic knowledge of the regional language:
If your destination has a predominant language, it is best to learn some basic phrases in their language so the local people can help you out in case you need them. Simple phrases like greetings, help requests, etc., should be in your vocabulary for a safe travelling experience.

8. Don't blindly trust strangers:
The age-old advice of not trusting strangers is a legitimate one. You can never predict people's true intentions, so while it is good to be nice in general, don't trust everyone you meet on your trip.

9. Don't eat or drink from unverified sources:
Being on a solo trip to foreign destinations will require you to be properly informed and careful with everything the place offers. So, for the sake of your safety, do not eat or drink from places that seem suspicious or unhygienic.

10. Follow a modest dress code:
While it may not be an issue in some places, it is always important to dress modestly if you plan to go on a solo trip somewhere unknown.

11. Have your entertainment sources with you:
While solo car travelling adventures are always fun, things can quickly get boring. So have a playlist of your favourite music to groove and enjoy your trip even more. Books and magazines are also a great way to entertain yourself during breaks.

We hope your solo travelling adventure is refreshing, entertaining, and safe. Prepare a quick checklist and note down all the crucial tasks to make your trip convenient. Start with taking your car for servicing. Pack light, do not stuff your bag with unnecessary things, and most importantly, carry a first-aid kit. Have all the required documents like driving licence, PUC, car insurance India, etc., handy with you. Keep these tips in mind for a better experience, and lastly, have a safe journey!

Click HERE to buy car 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.

India is a country with diverse topography, culture, and people. Since the urbanisation boom, most of our population has shifted from villages to cities in search of opportunities and better lives.

Recent trends indicate a welcome change as the increasing number of people are opting for village tours to experience rural life in stark contrast to the everyday bustle of the cities. These village tours help support the rural economy and boost tourism.

The unparalleled experiences in remote villages are an experience like no other. These tours provide a glance at everyday village life, including the local cultures, food, and lifestyle. These experiences can significantly change the way we perceive life.

What to expect from village tours?
Village tours are a great way to get an idea of what village life looks like for a short period. It is an immersive experience where you can interact with villagers and be amongst the common folk. You can feel the sense of community engagement while enjoying the pristine rural background.
Some tours also provide a luxurious experience through well-built camps equipped with all the requisite amenities. However, as you are stepping into a lifestyle unknown to you, it is best to be prudent and insure yourself and your fellow travellers. If you do not yet have a travel insurance policy, you can consider purchasing online general insurance that covers accidental mishaps.

Following are some of the best villages tours in India;

1. Kutch:
The white desert in Gujarat is home to several villages where they continue to preserve and exhibit their traditions, culture, and handicrafts. While the desert has plenty to explore, the villages provide an opportunity to live in clusters of mud huts and engage in the daily activities of the Kutchi people.

2. Punjab:
Punjab is an ideal place to experience village life. With a majority of people engaged in agriculture and allied activities, the hospitable villagers of Punjab are great hosts for facilitating this experience. One can experience tractor rides, farming activities based on the season, and learn more about their culture. All of this can be done in vast fields with clear skies in the backdrop- how much better can it get?

3. Wayanad:
The district at an altitude is home to some of the oldest tribal villages. The North Kerala cuisine, coffee plantations, bamboo handicrafts, and workshops are highlights of visiting the villages of Wayanad. Depending on the season, you can try your hand at working in the vast plantain orchards and coconut plantations.

4. Spiti Valley:
Spiti Valley is a cold desert in Himachal Pradesh with small villages spread over the region. Although the villages are sparsely populated and very remote, they provide a unique experience. The unfamiliar surroundings in the mountains may seem cold, but the warmth of the people makes up for it.
The locals are excellent guides to take you sightseeing and can help make the most of your trip while bonding with your hosts.

5. Sunderbans:
Known for being the land native to the Royal Bengal Tiger and swampy marshlands, several villages are located in the Sunderbans. Walks in the villages, exploring the mangroves, and basking in the humid climate are what your days would look like on a village tour to Sunderbans.

Irrespective of the village you choose to explore, you will be greeted by enthusiastic and hospitable hosts who will do their utmost to make your stay enjoyable and comfortable. Your hosts will ensure to engage you in a trip that will leave you feeling like you're amongst them without missing out on any luxuries or facing any inconveniences.

Our only tip to you before you book your trip would be to look into the terrain and climate and pack accordingly. Be aware of the risks associated with the area you're visiting and ensure that your insurance covers the same. If not, you can always buy online general insurance that can keep you protected at all times.

Click HERE to buy online general insurance plan.

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.