GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Recent studies indicate that over 50% of vehicles on Indian roads are uninsured, of which two-wheelers make the majority. This is alarming considering the lack of safety features in two-wheelers and poorly maintained Indian roads, which lead to the ever-increasing number of road fatalities.

Despite making two wheeler insurance India mandatory, a vast majority continue to undermine its importance. This may be attributed to the financial product's complexity and uncertainties concerning the claim settlement process. While two wheeler insurance India protects against financial losses and damages from riding accidents, it is contingent on the claim's approval. Insurance providers have recognised the fear of potential policy buyers and have further simplified the process of raising a claim to increase penetration rates in the country.

Follow these tips to ensure the successful two wheeler insurance claim settlement.

How to raise successful claims?

This may come as no surprise, but the best way to raise a successful claim is to follow the insurance company's claim settlement process correctly. It is ideal for complying with the settlement procedure stated on the insurer's website to ensure favourable results. Most insurers have similar processes, which are reasonably straightforward to follow.

However, here are some tips to make sure that your claims are viewed favourably and settled at the earliest.

1. Early reporting:
Inform your insurer immediately after the accident. If you delay the process, you may forget the essential details required to validate your claim. Visit the insurer's website or call their toll-free number to raise a claim. If not possible, initiate the process within a week of the accident.

2. Proper surveying:
It is understood that an accident is a traumatic event to witness or be a victim of, irrespective of its scale. However, to successfully receive a complete settlement, you need valid and comprehensive proof to support your account. While details like the number plate of the other vehicle, pictures showing the damage, etc., are essential, any minute details can help solidify your stance.

3. Maintain precise post-accident records:
The most commonly accepted record by insurance companies is an FIR filed at the nearest police station to the accident site. Any medical expenses or bike servicing costs should also be recorded and submitted to the insurer for compensation.

4. Gather proof of following standard driving protocol:
An accident is an unfortunate event that cannot be entirely blamed on either party. While insurance companies look at the overall picture before passing a judgement on the case, you must ensure that you followed appropriate driving guidelines at the time of the accident. Here are a few reasons that can get your claim rejected:

● Riding without a valid driver's licence

● Riding with a lapsed two-wheeler insurance policy

● Riding under the influence of substances

● Reckless riding

● Use of two-wheeler for commercial or unauthorised use

5. Check your policy's inclusions:
Raising a claim requires knowing your policy's coverage to avoid rejection. You must know essential details like the authorised geographical region, active policy period, etc. Before raising the claim, ensure that you do not fall under any exclusions. Do not make false claims that you cannot support with evidence, as it automatically leads to rejection.

6. Provide all the requisite documents:
In case of incomplete submission of documents, you will have to duplicate efforts and submit the records until you satisfy the insurer's requirement. Usually, the list includes

● Copy of valid two wheeler insurance India

● Contact details of the policyholder

● Copy of FIR filed with the nearest police station

● Claim settlement form

● Copy of driver's licence and registration documents

● Original bills as proof of medical expenses and repairs

Two wheeler insurance India is a prudent mechanism to ensure protection against financial losses and damages to third parties due to your two-wheeler. Despite the general notion of the tedious nature of the claim settlement process, you can raise claims successfully by following above tips and simply complying with the insurer's requirements!

Click HERE to purchase hassle-free two wheeler insurance India 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.

Health insurance policies now come with the portability feature in which you can transfer your current health insurance policy to a new service provider, subject to certain terms and conditions. You may look to port your policy for several reasons, such as poor service quality, a slow claim settlement process, higher premiums, and room rent restrictions.

Your NCB (No-claim bonus) amount accrued to date is also transferred along with the policy. Moreover, the waiting period served to date with the existing insurance provider is also considered and adjusted with the new company.

Here’s a complete guide to making the portability of health insurance policies clearer.

1. Eligibility and charges:
Individuals with an active indemnity-based health insurance policy are eligible for the portability process. But the porting can be done only with a similar health insurance policy.
For example, we can port a top-up insurance plan to another similar plan only. There are no additional charges for the portability feature in a health insurance policy.

2. Portability time:
The option of portability of your health insurance policy is only available at the time of the renewal. The policy must be running continuously over time, without any break-in period.
Moreover, any insured should apply for portability of his policy at least 45 days before the premium gets due for renewal. Also, he cannot apply earlier than 60 days from the renewal date of the premium of his existing health insurance policy.

3. Portability benefits:
Portability of time-bound exclusions and the waiting period already served with the current insurance service provider gets transferred to the new policy. Other benefits, such as accrued NCB (No-claim Bonus), also get ported.

4. Pending acceptance:
Suppose the health insurance portability acceptance is pending with the new insurance service provider, and your policy expires with the current insurance provider. In that case, the new insurer can request the previous one to renew the policy for a few days. They will charge a pro-rata premium for that period to extend the policy validity.
Your current insurer cannot cancel your policy until the new service provider confirms the issuance of the new policy or a specific request to your current insurer is made to cancel your policy.
If you raise a claim in this extended period, your existing health insurance company can agree to settle the claim after you pay the balance premium for that full year. Also, you will have to continue with that insurer for that year.

5. Higher SI (Sum Insured):
Opting for a higher SI or sum insured is permitted when porting your health insurance. However, the existing benefits, such as the NCB, will be the same as per the terms of the existing service provider when porting the policy.

6. Waiting period:
You need to be careful with the waiting periods offered by the new insurance company. All the terms and conditions of the new insurance company are applicable to the policy after you make the shift, including additional waiting periods, if any. However, the waiting period served under the current insurance policy will count and be adjusted with the new insurance company.

7. Group health insurance policy:
Suppose you are a part of a group policy and intend to change the service provider. In that case, you can do it by migrating to an individual health insurance policy with the same insurance company. You can then start the porting of your policy to another insurance company.

The portability of health insurance policies is a favourable option provided by the IRDAI. Being a valued customer, you have the right to receive the best services from your insurance provider. You can always port your health insurance to a better insurer if your current insurance company fails to provide adequate services.

Browse through all the available options and substitutes for your existing policy. It is preferred to opt for online health insurance, understand the terms and conditions of different options, and choose the best one for you!

Click HERE to buy online health 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.

Covid-19 has taught us the importance of having a strong immune system that takes care of our health adversities. Many people have been severely infected, hospitalised, landed in emergency rooms, or have faced the unfortunate loss of their dear ones. The pandemic hasn’t been contained. But people have gotten a lot more immune to the virus.

Plus, the vaccine has been proving extremely helpful in such dire times and aid in developing a shield in your body against the virus. And many of these patients have had the privilege of holding medical insurance, which helped them and their family members cover the cost of the treatment without focusing on financial matters.

There have been multiple occasions where we all have been confused between health and medical insurance. While these terms are closely related, the benefits and coverage of these insurance policies differ. Are you someone who is confused between the two? This blog discusses all such significant pointers which will help you understand and differentiate between the two. So, let’s get started.

What does health insurance entail?
Health insurance covers all hospital costs alongside the pre-hospitalisation and post-hospitalisation expenses. This expenditure includes costs of ambulances, treatments, etc. It is considered a comprehensive insurance policy that acts as a massive benefit for the policyholders and caters to their needs in a customised manner.

What does medical insurance entail?
Medical insurance has restricted privileges one can avail of. It is directed towards specific ailments and accidents which have been specified earlier. There is an absence of options that can provide add-on coverages like health insurance. Medical insurance depends on the amount insured. You can claim the medical insurance policies in two ways: cashless and reimbursement.

1. Cashless insurance Policy: Health insurance defines a set of hospitals under its policy. Upon getting treatment in that hospital under proper supervision, the policyholders do not have to pay a single penny. The patient can avail the cashless treatment option of their health insurance against their policy number, and the hospital works things out with the insurance company directly.

2. Reimbursement: A properly planned comprehensive health insurance policy covers pre-hospitalisation charges, including ambulance costs, tests from the specified hospital, etc. This pre-hospitalisation coverage lasts anywhere from thirty to sixty days, based on the type of health insurance plans you have opted for.

Key differences between health insurance and medical insurance:

1. Medical insurance plans are pretty tunnelled and work only regarding the specified ailments. There is no pre or post-hospitalisation coverage benefit in medical insurance plans. The patient is supposed to bear the transportation charges and other expenses.

2. Health insurance policies give you several add-on coverage options like critical illness, disabilities due to accidents, etc. At the same time, no such choices are available when purchasing medical insurance plans. The critical condition includes diseases like cancer, heart attacks, etc., which carry a grave danger to your health, and their treatments can burn through your bank accounts.

3. Health insurance plans are pretty flexible compared to medical insurance policies. They provide you with the scope of reduction of the policy period, insurance premium amount after a specific duration, etc.

We hope this information gives you a basic understanding of the two types of insurance and the benefits you can avail yourself of. Given the current climatic conditions, lifestyle, sleeping patterns, environmental changes, and several other factors, health issues come without warning.

As the world progresses for the better in terms of technology, humans have backtracked when it comes to healthy living. To avoid any financial distress during such hectic and unfortunate circumstances, you must browse through various health insurance plans in India and choose the one which would suit your needs in the best ways. Health is wealth, and there is no second opinion about this.

Click HERE to learn more about the benefits of different health insurance plans 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.

Most people are familiar with motor insurance, its benefits, and its exclusions. It is an efficient financial instrument that supports us when our insured vehicle encounters an unfortunate incident. Motor insurance comes with many optional coverages that may be useful to you. Did you know about the Return to Invoice or RTI coverage? Choosing this coverage while you buy motor insurance online can be a great help. Let's learn more about RTI coverage, its benefits, and its functionality.

What is "Return to Invoice" in motor insurance?

Return to invoice is an optional coverage for your car insurance. It lets you get money equal to the car's original value, also called the invoice value. This coverage is not required by law, so you can buy motor insurance online and include RTI coverage as an add-on. It is an application you use when your car faces total loss, such as if someone steals it or it gets fully damaged by fire or a natural calamity.

How does it work?
In normal car insurance coverage without an RTI add-on, you can get the maximum claim amount as your car's "insured declared value" (IDV). IDV is always less than the invoice value of the car.
However, with car insurance having RTI coverage, you can get the maximum amount of claim on the invoice value of your car. In simple words, when you have RTI coverage in your car insurance, you can get the road value of your car when it is stolen.

How is it calculated?
You can easily determine the amount of insurance that comes with RTI by looking at the car's total price when you buy it. The return to invoice includes the total car price, such as road tax paid, ex-showroom price, and registration cost.

What is covered in Return to Invoice?
If your car gets stolen or damaged beyond repair, you can raise a claim against the RTI. Let's look at the different circumstances when this coverage can benefit you:

● When you don't have secured parking

● Living in an area where car thefts are common

● Living in an area prone to natural calamities such as floods, landslides, and more

What does not apply in the Return to Invoice?

Sometimes, the RTI cover may not work, and you can't claim the insured amount. Here are some situations when this cover is not applicable, including:

● Damage to your car when someone else is driving

● You can't avail RTI add-on if your car is older than 3 years from the buying time

● You can't avail of the RTI cover for minor dents and grazing on the car body

● You must submit a copy of the FIR to process the return-to-invoice claim

Benefits of Return to Invoice in motor insurance.

Some benefits of RTI in car insurance include:

● It increases the scope of your car insurance coverage

● It is beneficial when you live in an area where car thefts are common

● It is available for new cars. Hence, you can give your new car more care with this cover

● It is available with a comprehensive car insurance policy

Once you understand everything about the Return to Invoice, consider adding this optional cover. RTI can help you when your car is damaged beyond repair. If you live or park your car in a place where theft, natural calamity, or fire is common, you should add RTI to your policy when you buy motor insurance online.

Click HERE to buy motor 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.

A cashless garage facility is one in which an insurance company has a tie-up with a garage. Whenever you meet with an accident or file an insurance claim for repairs, you will not have to settle the bill in cash at these garages. The insurance company will directly pay the bill. However, you have to bear some nominal charges for processing the claim. Also, some compulsory deductibles exist as per the insurance policy’s terms and conditions.

Not all garages will have a tie-up with your respective insurance company. The list of network garages is easily available with your insurance company. You need to verify it with your insurance provider and search for the nearest garage that will provide you with a cashless facility. Let us see how a cashless garage facility can be helpful to us.

1. Hassle-free claim settlement:
Insurance companies are directly connected to the network garages. Hence, you do not need to visit multiple garages to complete the repair work. You can directly go to the network garage after informing the insurance company, provide the required documents, and that’s it! The garage will take it over, and the insurance company will settle the bill. The entire claim settlement process becomes hassle-free.

2. Prompt service:
As mentioned above, not all garages are covered in the cashless network list of the insurance company. Hence, listed garages provide prompt and good quality repairs and renewal services to maintain harmonious relations with the insurance company. This can be helpful to you, and you’ll get quick service and timely delivery of your vehicle.

3. No cash payout:
This is one of the most important benefits of a cashless garage facility. In the non-listed garage, you have to settle the entire bill in cash at the time of delivery of the car. Accidents do not come informed. Hence, such sudden bills can put you under a financial burden. The repair costs of modern-day cars are hefty and can cost several thousands of rupees in one go.
A cashless garage facility will release this financial burden from you, and you’ll not have to pay any repair costs from your pocket. Minor documentation and deductibles charges can be easily met. This facility makes the claim settlement process swift, and you do not have to worry about footing the repair bill.

4. Transparent billing and quality service:
The insurance company and its surveyors are in constant touch with the network garage. They provide a big chunk of work to the garage regularly. Hence, the network garages abstain from committing any fraud, using sub-standard components and parts, or engaging in over-billing while repairing cars. Hence, we are assured of fair and transparent billing and top-notch service.

A cashless garage facility is a blessing for all vehicle owners. It makes the claim settlement process convenient, hassle-free, and fast. Also, it relieves us from paying sudden and heavy repairs and renewal charges when our car meets with an accident. We get quality work at reasonable prices.

But first, you need to have a valid and functional motor insurance policy for your vehicle to enjoy a cashless garage facility for it. Always renew your insurance policy on time and never let it expire because accidents do not announce before occurring. Opt for online motor insurance renewal, which makes the renewal process effortless. You can do it from the comfort of your office or home, at any time of day or night. Also, you are saved from the hassle of meeting with the insurance agent or going to the insurance office for renewal. Go the modern way; choose online motor insurance renewal.

Click HERE for hassle-free online motor insurance renewal.

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.

In India, awareness about motor insurance has grown significantly in the last few years. The number of insurance policyholders is slowly but steadily increasing. The increasing means of living and demand for luxury goods to improve convenience are anticipated to keep driving the market for motor insurance. Comprehensive motor insurance consisting of own damages and third-party covers is expected to grow more in the coming future.

Third-party liability insurance is mandatory to protect the driver against legal and accidental liability, financial loss or property damage, and medical expenses he may face after an accident. Despite its advantages, settling claims is a lengthy and costly procedure. The knock-for-knock agreement is a recently introduced aspect of motor insurance to simplify the process and increase the policyholder base and satisfaction.

This blog discusses all you need to know about the knock-for-knock agreement.

The issue before the knock-for-knock agreement:

When an accident happens, the persons involved can contact their insurance companies to compensate the other party for damages. However, this is a lengthy procedure that may sometimes take months to settle with unfavourable conditions. It is also still being determined whether or not the insurer will accept the claim.

In the background of such uncertainties, the affected party has no choice but to file a suit in court, which takes additional time and cost. The knock-for-knock agreement aims to eliminate this waiting period by providing an alternate solution to settle the claim among the parties without the court's involvement.

An alternative approach using a knock-for-knock agreement:

The knock-for-knock agreement is signed by two or more motor insurance companies insuring two or more parties involved in a motor accident. Since these companies are aware of the tedious claim settlement process, they use this alternative agreement and promise to bear the expenses for repairs or damages to their client instead of claiming the amount from the other party. Introduced in 2001 by the General Insurance Council, a motor insurance company doesn't need to sign such an agreement to make the claim process quick.

Advantages of knock-for-knock agreement:

While the concept is simple to understand, here is the summary of the benefits of signing a knock-for-knock agreement:

● Speedy settlement of claims

● Eliminates the need for the involvement of law

● Reduces the expenses required to be borne in case of proving the liability of the third party to derive a settlement from his insurer

Conditions for knock-for-knock agreement:

Three primary conditions are applicable for claims that are admissible under a knock-for-knock agreement.

1. Accidents must occur within geographical boundaries:
The insurance company decides such boundaries before the lodging of the claim. Generally, the limit is considered to be the defined geographical boundaries of India. It is implied that any accident outside the border cannot be admitted as a claim under a knock-for-knock agreement.

2. The claim must be filed as own damages:
Under the agreement, each motor insurance company agrees to compensate its client instead of demanding compensation from the other party. This claim can no longer be filed as third-party damages and is processed as "own damage". Therefore, you must purchase your "own damages" cover, without which you cannot complete this procedure.

3. Limit on the claim amount:
The admissible claim cannot exceed the insured declared value (IDV) previously mentioned in the policy.

The knock-for-knock agreement is a lesser-known aspect of motor insurance that makes claim settlements speedy and inexpensive. It saves the resources of a motor insurance company that agrees to such a contract. Explore this aspect to know more about its seamless benefits before buying motor insurance in India.

Click HERE to buy reliable 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.

A critical safety element that is now standard in all modern vehicles is the anti-lock braking system, or ABS. The ABS is frequently marketed as an efficient breaking mechanism that significantly reduces accident risk by facilitating a good grip over the vehicle. We go over everything you need to know about ABS, including its advantages, how it works, and the several kinds you can find in modern vehicles.

What exactly is "anti-lock braking"?

The name of the technology suggests that when you apply the brakes, ABS keeps the wheels from locking. It shortens the distance you need to stop and lets you move or "steer" the car while the brakes are still on. This way, you can avoid collisions from sudden braking and crash into fellow vehicles or objects.

What is the purpose of ABS?

Irrespective of the car's speed, when you press the brake pedal (without ABS), the wheels lock up because the brake pads make tight contact with the wheel discs and stop the wheels from turning.

The car skids because of its momentum when the wheels stop rotating. As a result, the driver has no control over the wheels. Most frequently, this can result in severe accidents.

What are the main components of ABS?

Speed sensors, valves, a pump, and an ECU comprise most ABS parts.

Speed sensors:
These sensors are important to keep track of the wheels' speed.
Valves:
In the brake line, some valves regulate the pressure on the brakes.
Pumps:
When brakes are used, hydraulic fluid-filled pumps pressure the brake callipers or drums.
Electronic Control Unit (ECU):
In response to the signals from the speed sensors, the ECU acts as the command centre of all the processing.

How is ABS used?

When you use the brakes on a car with ABS, the speed sensors track how slowly the wheels turn. Brakes deliver a signal to the electric control unit when they are about to stop rotating. Using valves and pumps, the ECU removes some of the brake pads from the wheels, allowing them to continue spinning. When you apply heavy brakes, ABS enables the wheels to continue turning, giving you control over the car.

Without ABS, when you hit the brakes, the wheels would stop or lock up immediately, causing the car to slide. In this situation, the vehicle would skid and travel a fair distance. It would be challenging to turn your vehicle because the wheels were locked. ABS helps you slow down efficiently, deploy uniform braking, and quickly control your car and avoid it from spinning.

ABS benefits:

● Uneven tyre wear is avoided because the wheels don't lock up when the automobile is stopped.

● The Traction Control System (TCS) and ABS share specific fundamental architectures, which facilitate TCS installation on vehicles in manufacturing facilities.

● You may steer the automobile around obstacles when braking hard, which can reduce brake pad and brake disc wear.

● Minimises the risk of severe accidents due to sudden braking and enhances the car's stability post-braking.

When the brakes are applied hard at high speeds, ABS keeps the wheels from locking up, which makes it much less likely that a deadly accident will happen. The effectiveness of the anti-lock braking system has been demonstrated everywhere. Anti-lock brake systems are now so critical to safety that the Indian government has made them a requirement.

Safety is paramount, and braking is a crucial part of vehicle safety. It's also a good idea to get online motor insurance to upgrade the security of the vehicle and the owner. Motor insurance covers car owners' liabilities and protects them from damage to their cars and any legal obligations they may face. Browse through different options and opt for online motor insurance with the best premium and benefits that suit your needs.

Click HERE to buy online 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.

Most households should foresee drainage issues. We can only hope that the drains in our homes are in good condition because they are out of our sight. But several early indicators alert us to a drainage issue. If left unattended, these drainage concerns put people at risk and give rise to crises like safety, health, and financial problems when dealing with poor drainage conditions.

Seven typical drainage issues have been discovered to guarantee a flawless drainage system by sorting these issues:

1. Even with safety precautions, a clog in the drain system is unavoidable, and people flush many things down into the drain. Although it might begin as a slow-moving drain, it could eventually worsen and end up blocked. It is crucial to try an at-home fix for a blockage as soon as it gets noticed.

2. The installation, regular cleaning, and maintenance of gutters and downspouts are essential for the exteriors of dwellings. Numerous issues have arisen when several people take responsibility for their work independently. Both insufficient pipe installation and a lack of plumbing experience are the leading causes. If pipes aren't put in the right way, they can cause plumbing issues, broken tubes, and other property damage, along with the improper passage of sewage.

3. Drain pipes are subjected to a lot of wear and tear, resulting in fractures or cracks that cause the pipes to have open joints. Water leaks from these cracks could result in serious issues in the neighbourhood and even structural damage. Another indication of leaks and an excess of moisture is the development of mould. Pest infestations that enter through pipeline cracks are another issue about pipe breaking and leakage. Fortunately, one can easily fix these problems with prompt diagnosis.

4. With the right slope, water will flow away from the house. It has a big effect on the slope of the land so that the drainage moves away from buildings, especially in places that need to be paved, like parking lots and driveways. Sometimes, the builder might get this wrong and let water seep in or get stuck in the structure, damaging the walls.

5. The growth of plants can be dangerous to plumbing. In the trenches built around pipes and drains, tree roots can obstruct or destroy pipework as they develop and spread. They can enter the drainage system through openings, mainly already-damaged joints. They usually leave a mess of odours and have significant health risks.

6. Heavy rain or storms and the debris they leave behind can cause clogs, floods, or overflows in the drainage system if not appropriately covered.

7. Flooding can put pressure on pipes and can damage the ground. An inadequate drainage system or pipes is another sign of outdoor flooding.

8. Assume your house is next door to your neighbour's. Even if you take all the proper steps, there is still a chance that water from your neighbours' properties will cause damage to your property. It can occur because of a flood on their land or simply because your property is lower than theirs. To prevent water runoff from the neighbours, you must take the appropriate actions and ask for effective waterproofing of the floor.

These problems show how important it is to keep up with drainage system maintenance to avoid extreme issues. Even though most drainage problems aren't evident at first glance, the above points will help you figure out what's wrong and how to fix it.

Conduct periodic inspections of your house's drainage system and look for damages in the pipes, sinks, or ducts. Immediately call the experts to fix it before the issue becomes severe. Ensure regular cleaning of the drains to avoid clogging and unwanted growth of plants. To deal with other problems related to the well-being of your home, like protection from damages to belongings due to natural calamities and other issues like riots, invest in a reliable home insurance India policy. This will provide you with optimum coverage for your home financial support by compensating for the damages caused.

Click HERE to buy 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.

Who does not love to travel in the winter season? The chilly weather with snow-clad mountains or the cool climate on the beaches and plains can be delightful and welcoming. Taking advantage of the pleasant climate and an ideal season to travel, numerous tourists plan family holidays and group tours to explore the best winter destinations in India. But the idea of winter travel reminds us of the arduous task of carrying thick, heavy, woollen clothing.

Are you planning a family trip or a solo adventure this winter? Here are a few effective winter travel tips for enjoying a memorable trip.

1. Plan in advance:
Winter travel in December and January coincides with Christmas and New Year vacations in schools and holidays in offices. Hence, there is usually a lot of crowd at popular vacation spots and heavy bookings on flights, trains, and hotels.
Hence, you should always plan your winter trip well in advance. Book your travel tickets and accommodations as early as possible so that you don’t have to cancel your trip at the last moment due to the unavailability of travel tickets or rooms in good hotels.
Even if you can get flight tickets and good accommodation at the last moment, you will have to pay exorbitant rates. So why not plan in advance, save money and make your trip memorable?

2. Check your flight and train departure:
Always check the timings of your flight or train departure in the winter season before leaving home. They are usually delayed and are sometimes even cancelled due to heavy fog and low visibility. Keep an alternate route or service in mind in case of any cancellations. This will ensure that your travel plan gets successful.

3. Travel light:
You will wonder how we can travel light with bulky woollen clothes, especially if we are visiting some cold place or a hill station. It is possible by following some simple tips. Wear your most bulky jacket, sweater, shrug, or scarf on the day you have to travel. This will mean you will not have to pack them inside your bags. Also, wear your heavy boots and pack your lighter shoes or slip-on in your bag.
Do not pack multiple t-shirts, tops, or jeans with you. Repeat them. What you wear on the top is only visible in winter. Keep changing your jacket, shrug, or coat, and no one will know you are repeating your dresses! Also, buy woollen clothes of superior quality so that you don’t need multiple layers of clothing to keep you warm. Carry thermal innerwear of good quality as they are light and warm.

4. Rent travel gear:
You don’t need to carry your travel gear everywhere you travel in winter. For example, if you want to ski in the snow, you can rent all the essential gear, including snow boots and overcoats, from the resort you are staying in.

5. Medication:
The cold season brings many ailments, such as flu or fever, nasal congestion, cough, etc. Always carry appropriate medication, especially when travelling with kids and the elderly. Also, use small cases for carrying your cold cream and moisturiser so they only take up a little space.

Make your winter trip special and memorable by following the above travel ideas. Another important tip is to go for your true companion that will never leave your side, i.e., travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against trip cancellations, lost baggage, damage to your luggage, etc. You can take an annual plan to cover all your trips or insure only a particular trip.

Insurance will also offer coverage in case of any medical emergency and assistance arising during your trip. Make your life secure and tension-free by choosing a wide variety of general insurance policies. Moreover, buy online general insurance from the ease of your home with a few clicks, additional benefits, and the best premium rates. We wish you a happy winter!

Click HERE to buy online general insurance before planning your winter travel 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.

Have you ever tried running your hand over your house's glass window panes? The amount of dust you will come across is worrisome. We all are familiar with the saying "cleanliness is next to godliness," but at this point, it is not just about keeping your house clean. It is also about your and your family's health. The dust that settles on furniture, doors, and windows surfaces enters your body when you inhale while just being around your house and going about your everyday chores.

Many times, we rush to the doctor with a common cold or some health issue which is related to the hygiene problems arising from the dust and dirt which have made their way into our home, costing us several trips to the emergency room, medicine dosages, or having a troubled sleep at night.

But how can you combat this problem? Don't worry. This blog will discuss smart tips for washing home glass windows with sparkling shine, which would help you eliminate the tiniest speck of dust, leaving the glass panels squeaky clean!

1. Notice the frame:
If you closely examine a window, you will be shocked by the amount of dust, spider webs, etc., settled on the frame of the glass. The first step to cleaning your windows would be to clean the frame so that the dust particles do not float in the air and find their way to any other surface. You can use a microfibre towel to clean the dust and a sparkling shine solution to wipe off the frame after dusting.

2. How about a mop:
The windows can be large and high, which might not be accessible to clean using a small microfibre towel. A mop with a stretchable handle is the best idea in this scenario. You can dip the mop in a solution, wring it and then wipe the glass windows by stretching the handle to the required length. Ensure that the mop reaches all the corners of the windows, thus giving them the sparkling shine!

3. A small wiper is an intelligent option:
Doubling up on cleaning supplies has never gone to waste. Apart from using a microfibre towel and a mop, you can also use a small wiper which would help you wipe off the cleaning liquid so that it doesn't leave a stain on the window. Keeping a wiper will help you clean the window's exterior glass panel, thus eliminating pollen or bird waste, etc.

4. Rain can be difficult for the windows:
It is advised to clean the windows from the inside and the outside three to four times a year. The most favourable time to clean your windows is during spring and autumn. Cleaning your windows during these seasons helps eliminate any complicated to-clean mineral deposits that might have been set due to the rains.

5. Cleaning directions are a huge bonus:
Spraying some cleaning liquid and using a microfibre towel to wipe the windows can have magnified effects if you clean the window in a circular motion and jazz it up by swiping horizontally and vertically to avoid setting off any liquid stains or dirt.

Other tips include using tongs when cleaning window panes and blinds, using a lint roller on the window screens to remove the lint that might have found its way, cleaning/vacuuming the curtains, etc.

These were a few smart tips for washing home glass windows with sparkling shine. Keeping your house clean and hygienic is very important. Home is not just a place to live; it is an emotion. It houses millions of memories and fosters relationships, so you must get home insurance to protect this sacred space against any unforeseeable mishaps and situations. You can look for the benefits of the various home insurance options which are available in the market and purchase the one which suits your needs.

Click HERE to learn more about buying home 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.

Out of 195 countries, setting oneself apart from others is difficult. Most countries are either known for their rich resource endowment or their progress and economic significance. Over the years, India has continuously made optimal use of its resources to cultivate its financial position amongst other leading developing and developed countries. However, one thing that makes India genuinely unique is its rich cultural identity.

India is a land of deep-rooted culture and traditions. Ancient temples and practices are proof of the long legacy of the old civilizations that formed the fundamentals of society. There are over two million temples in India, proving the significance of heritage and spiritualism in the country. Of this enormous number, many temples have existed since the rule of the ancient kingdoms and are proof of the vibrant traditions and beliefs of Indians.

The easiest way to experience the diverse culture of the expansive land is by immersing in the historical archives engraved on the temple walls and sculptures. Before you plan your trip to explore these temples, we recommend contacting a general insurance company to purchase a comprehensive cover to compensate for any damages during travel. After checking that off, here is a list of ancient temples you must visit!

1. Mundeshwari Devi Temple:
Located in Bihar, it is said to be one of the oldest temples in the country, open to the public. The Archaeological Survey of India dates the temple back to 108 AD after consideration of its design and architecture. The temple is a shrine for Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga and is popularly known for its distinct octagonal design.

2. Somnath Temple:
Located in Gujarat, the Somnath Temple worships Lord Shiva. It is one among the 12 Jyotirlingas and holds great significance to the devotees of Shiva. The legend behind the temple also involves the Moon God. The temple initially held massive troves of treasures, which Mahmud of Ghazni raided during his attacks. Despite being destroyed, the temple has been restored and provides a peaceful environment to bask in its cultural significance.

3. Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple:
The gold-plated temple in Kerala is dedicated to Lord Padmanabha. Also known as the richest temple in India, the temple is thought to have existed for over 5000 years. The temple's wealth is estimated to be around 1 Lakh Crore Rupees, excluding a closed vault that cannot be opened until the chanting of the Garuda Mantra, an unknown chant.

4. Konark Temple:
The temple, built in the 13th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Orissa. Dedicated to the Sun God, its architecture sets it apart from other temples. It is designed based on geometric ideals, making it truly unique. The main temple had a suspended sun idol built using granite and magnets.

5. Dilwara Temple:
Dilwara Temple is an important Jain pilgrimage in Mount Abu built between the 11th and 13th centuries with intricate engravings. The exterior does not give insight into the grandeur of the exquisite marble carvings inside. The hilly terrain outside makes one appreciate the entire process of building the temple in an age without the convenience of transport vehicles.

6. Amarnath Cave Temple:
Situated in Jammu and Kashmir at a height of 3900 metres, visiting this shrine is an experience like no other. It is a naturally formed cave with a lingam of ice resembling Shiva's idol. Reaching the temple is challenging and requires significant effort and dedication.

While it is recommended to visit such divine places to uncover and understand the traditions and Indian heritage, it is also essential to pay heed to one's safety during the travel. A general insurance company provides excellent travel protection that one must consider before planning a trip.

Click HERE to buy travel insurance from the best general insurance company.

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.

Who does not enjoy travelling? Being able to visit and explore new places, try local cuisine, click pictures, and enjoy the native culture of a place is the dream of every traveller. Travelling fills the heart and mind with a sense of euphoria. It boosts your happy hormones and uplifts your spirits. Hence, everyone must take at least one vacation every year.

What if you're a beach person looking for your next blue water beach holiday in India? This article is just for you. We recommend 05 top beach holidays where you can enjoy quality time in blue waters and golden sands.

However, no matter where you travel to, you should always have general insurance to back you up. You can check the general insurance online quote in advance and purchase insurance that provides comprehensive coverage for your luggage and ensures a safe trip.

Here's a list of the best blue water beaches in India.

1. Marari Beach, Kerala:
If you're a fan of Kerala, you should visit this beach. Located near Kochi, this beach is close to the Mararikulam village of Kerala. The waters are apparent here. It is also peaceful and full of lush green vegetation around the village. It is also rated among the top five hammock beaches in India. You can spend some quality time here with your loved ones.

2. Butterfly Beach, Goa:
Present in South Goa, you can reach this beach easily by taking a ferry ride from Agonda beach. It is one of Goa's hidden gems, unexplored by most travellers. Not many people are aware of the magnificence of this beach. It is picturesque and beautiful in every possible way. It is a haven for nature lovers. Many butterflies hover over the beach, making it all the more enticing.

3. Radhanagar Beach, Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
It is one of the most picturesque beaches on Andaman and Nicobar’s Havelock Island. It has clear blue waters and white sands to its credit. A line of coconut trees surrounds the coastline, making it all the more aesthetic. The sunsets here are a sight to behold. You also have the chance to participate in various water sports when you are here at the beach.

4. Varkala Beach, Kerala:
Also known as Papanasam Beach, Varkala beach is one of the most breathtaking beaches in Kerala. You will catch a stunning view of the Arabian Sea from the cliffs present at the beach. You can either sunbathe on the golden sands or stroll by the coast. This beach is serene yet beautiful. You can also go swimming in the waters and rejuvenate yourself.

5. Bangaram Beach, Lakshadweep:
With its jaw-dropping blue waters and white sands, this beach is a cheerful retreat to enjoy with close ones. It is secluded from the hustle and bustle of city life. The beach has brown rocks on all sides. It makes the beach all the more attractive. The beach also has unique bioluminescence at night. The blue waters glow and look starry.

Make these top beaches a part of your travel bucket list and plan a dreamy holiday to savour these destinations' mystic charm. Regardless of the places you want to travel to, always have general insurance to keep your travel covered. An ideal insurance policy will cover your expenses if you incur any damages while travelling or if your luggage is damaged or stolen. You should also check the general insurance online quote before you apply for any policy. Research the best options and invest in a plan that best suits your needs. Better be safe than sorry!

Click HERE to get a 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.

We all want to live and work in a peaceful environment that motivates us to always give our best. Silence boosts productivity and makes the surroundings blissful. Silence is required for various activities throughout the day. Whether studying, working, or even sleeping, loud noise can disrupt your peace and well-being. High levels of sound have many ill effects on an individual's physical and mental health.

Significant decibels of sound not only lead to noise pollution but also contribute to an unbalanced lifestyle. It can increase blood pressure and heartbeat. It is also highly harmful to kids and older adults. Increased exposure to noise can damage the eardrums in the long run. It also increases anxiety, frustration, and irritation and can even trigger migraines and anxiety attacks.

The simple way to tackle this problem lies in soundproofing. It is a great boon to humanity and helps in preventing unnecessary sounds. Everything can be blocked by using soundproofing at home, from construction noises to vehicle horns.

Before making any changes to your house, purchasing the best house insurance India is recommended to safeguard your home in emergencies.

Without further ado, let's have a look at the best tips and tricks for soundproofing quickly at home.

1. Make use of soft materials or fabrics:
It is a known fact that sound travels via waves. This means that hard materials like metals amplify the sound. The more iron, tin, or copper you have around, the more complex sound will travel through them. On the other hand, soft materials like linens, cotton, and silk absorb sounds. The more soft fabric you have in a room, the better. Your curtains, carpets, blankets, and rugs can contribute a great deal to absorbing sound. You can also invest in soundproof curtains.

2. Use acoustic frames:
It is one of the latest things available for absorbing sounds. They are wooden frames with foam intact in them. They are highly efficient in absorbing sounds. They can be hung on the walls for soundproofing. This also prevents the noise of adjacent rooms from entering the desired room. It is excellent for people who live in apartments or condos. Acoustic frames are available in various shapes and sizes as well.

3. Consider adding layers:
If your building is still in development or if you have access to renovations, consider adding a layer of drywall. This wall will separate your room from the outside world. It will also cut off all external noises and prevent them from reaching your room. The stronger the wall, the better. It is advisable to get it done with the help of professionals while building a new room.

4. Notice the doors:
The doors play an integral role in determining the amount of sound that enters the room. For starters, keep it closed at all times. You can consider adding weather stripping around the door knob or handle. This will prevent any unnecessary noise from entering or leaving the room. You can also make use of a soundproof blanket. It can be put at the back of your door and removed when not needed.

5. Pay attention to the floors:
Floors can also help in soundproofing. You can put carpets on the floor to absorb the noise from outside. If you want a more effective solution, you should use foam flooring. It can be easily added over the flooring present and does not require much effort for installation.

These are some great ways to prevent noise from entering your house. Implement these and reward yourself with a peaceful and soundproof environment. In addition, protect your home with the best house insurance India, as it helps you deal with financial expenses in case of mishaps.

Click HERE to buy the best 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.

Even though the Indian insurance market has been expanding quickly in recent years, just about 3% of Indians currently have life insurance. Increasing the base of policyholders is essential to ensure that more people are sheltered from financial shocks. Although technology has been suggested as the answer to this issue, it may not be the most effective strategy to increase the number of Indian policyholders. This blog will discuss how tech may not be the best solution to expand the Indian policyholder base. So, without any further delay, let's get started.

1. Accessibility is still an issue:
As it is frequently out of range for significant portions of the population, technology may not be the most incredible way to increase the number of Indian policyholders. Despite India's tremendous internet expansion, many residents of rural areas still need access to smartphones and the internet.
The most successful way to communicate with these people is still through conventional media like newspapers, radio, and television. There is a substantial digital divide between tech adepts and those who are not. For instance, older individuals may need help navigating online insurance platforms, and individuals who do not speak English well may need help understanding the language used in many online insurance policies.

2. Price is one of the primary reasons:
Technology can be expensive to develop and maintain, which is another reason why there might be better ways to increase the number of policyholders. For smaller insurance companies, it might be too expensive to spend on technology, software development, and cybersecurity to build and manage online insurance platforms.
Insurance companies might also need to engage specialised personnel to operate the platforms, raising expenses even more. When costs like these are eventually passed on to customers through higher premiums, insurance becomes less affordable and less available to those who need it.

3. Lack of trust and belief in the insurance providers:
Additionally, there may be better uses of technology than fostering public confidence in insurance. Many individuals in India continue to be cautious of insurance companies and doubt their motives. This distrust is frequently based on prior instances where insurance companies have allegedly broken their commitments or failed to live up to their pledges. Personal interactions, open communication, and moral conduct are necessary for fostering trust and confidence in the insurance industry. Technology can undoubtedly make some of these encounters easier, but it cannot replace the value of human interaction, especially when fostering trust.

4. Absence of proper awareness and information:
Since technology tends to overlook the significance of insurance education, there might be better answers. Educating the public about the advantages and importance of life insurance is essential to increase the number of policyholders. Understanding the many insurance policy types, the coverage they provide, and how to pick the one that best suits their needs can all be achieved with insurance education.
The value of in-person interactions with trained insurance agents who can answer questions, offer guidance and help people choose the best policy cannot be replaced by technology, even though it can help deliver this education through online tutorials, webinars, and other digital resources.

What could be some probable solutions to this issue?

Policymakers may concentrate on enhancing life insurance education and awareness initiatives, particularly in rural areas. Offering financial incentives to those who buy insurance policies, including tax savings, may encourage people to enrol in insurance. Insurance companies may also consider partnering with banks, post offices, or non-governmental groups to reach a larger audience as an additional distribution channel.

We hope this blog provides insights into this issue and how insurance companies can grow their consumer base. While we are on the topic, it only seems like a brilliant idea to talk about how you need to get insurance from the best general insurance company which caters to its customers' needs optimally and is available 24*7 to assist them with their queries, therefore, helping them arrive at a decision.

Click HERE to learn more about how you can choose the best general insurance company for your needs.

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.

Higher education costs increase yearly, and many students turn to education loans to fund their studies. While a student loan can be a great option to finance your education, it can also be a significant financial burden after graduation. That is why it is crucial to consider taking out insurance on your education loan.

General insurance plans can offer you financial security in case of unexpected events that may cause you to default on the repayment of your education loan. Let's examine the benefits of taking out insurance on your education loan.

1. Financial protection for unforeseen events with education loan insurance:
Firstly, it provides financial protection to you and your family in case of an unexpected event such as job loss or a medical emergency. Suppose you cannot repay your education loan due to unforeseen circumstances. In that case, the burden of repayment falls upon the co-applicants. If you purchase insurance coverage, your insurer will ensure that your loan payments are taken care of, providing much-needed relief to you and your family during difficult times.

2. Improving credit scores with education loan insurance:
Insurance on your education loan may also improve your credit score. If you default on your education loan, it can adversely impact your credit score, making it more difficult for you to obtain credit in the future. By taking out insurance, you can avoid defaulting on your loan. This will help you maintain a good credit score and ensure that you are in a better position to obtain credit in the future.

3. Reduced burden of repayment:
Thirdly, insurance on your education loan can provide peace of mind. It can be stressful to think about the financial burden of repaying your education loan, especially if you are doubtful about your future income prospects. With insurance coverage, you can rest assured that your loan payments are taken care of. This will help you focus on your studies and career prospects without worrying about loan repayments.

4. Inbuilt insurance in education loans:
Insurance on your education loan may only sometimes be necessary. You can manage your loan repayments without insurance if you have a stable income and a good credit score. Additionally, some education loan providers may include insurance coverage as part of their loan package, so check with your loan provider before taking out a separate insurance policy.
Another critical factor to consider when buying insurance on your education loan is the type of insurance policy you choose. Various insurance policies are available, such as disability, unemployment insurance, etc.

5. Unemployment insurance for education loans:
Unemployment insurance can provide temporary financial assistance if you lose your job and cannot repay loans. It guarantees repayment of the loan amount without letting it reflect as a default. It also allows you to focus on finding stability and a consistent source of income rather than worry over the possibility of defaulting payments.

In conclusion, general insurance plans on your education loan can provide valuable financial protection and peace of mind. Similar to purchasing other general insurance plans, assessing your individual needs and circumstances is essential when choosing an insurance policy for your education loan. Carefully review the terms and conditions of the policy, and compare policies to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.

Purchasing general insurance plans for your student loan is not necessary and only mandatory when applying for institutions abroad. It can be a valuable tool for all those who want to protect themselves and their families from unexpected events that may affect their ability to repay their education loans.

Click HERE to buy different general insurance plans 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.

As the pandemic's effects subside and we return to offices, the stress associated with commuting has returned. Every weekday, most office workers face a huge challenge in the morning of whether travelling upwards of an hour one-way is worth their compensation.

Whether you choose private or public modes of transport, here are some tips and tricks to relieve stress from your daily commute.

1. Prepare the night before and leave earlier:
Hectic mornings increase stress levels during the commute, which results in irritation and reduced productivity. Worrying about being late every day can be very stress-inducing. To combat this, start preparing for your day ahead at night. Keep your work clothes and meals ready, and finish all your work. This will lead to a less stressful morning, resulting in you leaving 10 minutes earlier and not worrying about delays in reaching.

2. Try to commute actively:
Commuting via personal transport, such as a car or bike, can cause health issues. The best way to go about this is to walk or cycle as part of your commute if your work location is not far. This is known as an active commute, and it will drastically change the way you travel. Exercising on your way to work releases endorphins and improves mental and physical health. If walking or biking is not possible, try to take public transport. It increases your activity and reduces stress levels significantly.

3. Detach from the digital world:
In the age of social media, it is increasingly challenging to focus on oneself rather than what people on the internet are doing. It is essential to go off the grid for your mental health.
Your daily commute could be your time to read a new book, watch the view outside, or focus on yourself with meditation. Meditation has been a proven method of giving the brain the rest it deserves, and whether it be guided meditation or simply focusing inward, it will surely benefit you.

4. Try getting flexible hours:
It makes absolutely no sense sometimes that everyone has the same office hours. This causes the "rush hour," which is impossible to tolerate five days a week. If this is an option, ask your office for flexible hours, so you can come in before the rush hour and leave earlier too.
If this is not an option in your company, find some activities around your workplace before leaving for the day, like working out or reading a book in a nearby park. This way, you'll be able to avoid rush hour.

5. Try to buddy up for a long commute:
If you find driving incredibly dull and tedious, one way to improve it is to find neighbours who go to the same area for work and carpool with them. This way, the pressure of driving does not fall on you every single day, and you can chat with people along the journey. Ensure that you purchase new motor insurance or avail of online motor insurance renewal facilities to protect yourself and your car against the financial burden of accidents.

6. Stretch it out:
Keep stretching those aching muscles! Even when you're the one driving, always keep adjusting your neck and back, so they don't cramp up and give you further pain.

In conclusion, since long-distance commutes are an inescapable necessity in the urban lifestyle, effective management techniques are becoming essential to prevent strain on your mood and physical well-being. We recommend alternative commute methods to private transport for the best impact on your health. However, in case of no option but to travel by vehicle, ensure that you protect yourself against accidents. Check for your insurance status and get online motor insurance renewal before the due date.

Click HERE to know more about online motor insurance renewal.

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.

Buying a house can be an expensive but gratifying event. It is an extensive process involving multiple options and intense decision-making to create your dream house. After spending massive amounts of money, effort, and resources on your home, investing in house insurance India is prudent to protect your home, belongings, and more from uncertainties.

After spending massive amounts on purchasing your home, consider these DIY for your home's interiors to save on additional expenses. Equipped with the right tools, creativity, and zeal, you can take on any home DIY project! A painting project is the ideal task to test your skills and is manageable. Before you start painting, here are some tips to enhance the outcome of your DIY house painting project.

1. Purchase premium paint:
Make sure to pay attention to the quality of the paint. Every room in your house deserves a different type of paint, so keep that in mind. Choose paints with minimal volatile organic compounds and odour to keep your family safe. For your favourite walls in your house, choose a standout colour to create an accent wall.

2. Remove the hardware:
Remove light fittings, doorknobs, electrical cover plates, window locks, and window lifts. Store the components in a bucket. Tape the screws to each piece of hardware, and identify each one with its location to simplify future reinstallations.

3. Identify the type of paint on existing walls:
Test a patch to determine what colour was used there. Apply alcohol-soaked cotton to a small section of the wall. The paint is latex if there is paint residue on the cotton ball. If not, the colour is oil-based.

4. Inspect and prepare the area:
Before applying new primer and paint, check for any cracked or peeling areas. These need to be carefully sanded or scraped, as the weight of the new layer will loosen the old paint. A small amount of soap and water, followed by a rinse with clean water, may be required for greasy stains, followed by a wipe-down.

5. Paint from top to bottom:
Use your brush to start with the edges of the ceiling. Then use the roller to apply an even paint coating from top to bottom. Once you're done with a patch of the wall, leave it to dry. Continue the same process for the remaining patch of the wall. You might notice colour marks and streaks on the already-done patch. Now, get ready for the second round of coating. Ensure that your application motion is the same as the first round of coating to get a bright and evenly looking finish.

6. Fill in fractures, voids, and holes:
Examine the walls and trim carefully for flaws. Fix any holes, dents, and dings with wood filler, caulk gun, or ready-mix spackle, depending on the situation.

7. Safeguard everything you don't want to be painted:
Protect your flooring, furniture, and hardware before starting a painting project. Drop clothes are essential. Protecting door knobs with small plastic sandwich bags is a simple solution.

8. Use a paint grid:
A paint grid is an attachment to the bucket's rim. It facilitates the removal of extra paint and uniformly distributes it across the roller cover for consistent paint application.

9. Apply primer:
Paint and primer combinations work well if the surface is clean and smooth. However, use a different primer if it has been over eight years since the last paint job or if the wall has dents and scratches. Use a bonding primer to cover a hard surface, such as glass or high-gloss paint.

Interior painting projects require time, effort, and skill. While you can take on this task by yourself, the same does not apply to protecting your home. Consider purchasing house insurance India to protect your home against irreparable damage and prevent the depletion of your finances.

Click HERE to buy the best 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.

When switching to a sustainable energy source like solar, it is wise to conduct a careful study because this is an expensive purchase you will have to live with for 25 years. In this post, we will provide essential questions so you can learn everything you need to know before installing solar panels on your home. These solutions will simplify your solar journey.

1. How much can solar power reduce your household electricity costs?
The monthly savings from solar for household electricity users can be as much as 80%, and in certain circumstances, even more. Before ordering a solar system, determine how much money you will save.

2. Can you utilise net metering at your house? When should you apply if the answer is yes?
Savings from solar can be maximised using a net metering feature in conjunction with an on-grid or hybrid solar system. In exchange for payment, you can export the extra electricity your solar system produces to the grid.
Now, homeowners in all of India's states can use the facility. However, the advantages may vary based on the tariffs established by the individual states. Before and after your solar PV system installation, you can apply for net metering. Nonetheless, we advise you to apply for net metering before the system is installed for your convenience.

3. How much would it cost for your rooftop solar system?
Over the past ten years, solar system prices have decreased significantly. A typical 1 kilowatt (kW) solar system, which cost about INR 145 per watt (Wp) in 2000, is now available for about INR 35 per Wp. However, the final price varies according to the project's size, the skill level of the solar installer, and component quality.
Residential solar systems are often smaller than commercial or industrial ones, and because of the smaller scale of operations, the cost per KW tends to be more significant. The essential thing in this situation is not to hold back on the components' quality or the installer's knowledge.

4. When will your solar system reach financial stability?
With a properly installed household solar system, you should reach your breakeven point in about three and a half years. However, the system size and the state's DISCOM tariff rate affect the breakeven point. The critical thing to remember is that since solar energy returns come in the form of savings, they are guaranteed. You can use a solar calculator to determine your expected payback period and return on investment.

5. Is the rooftop of your house a suitable location for solar panel installation?
It is crucial to examine the capacity of your rooftop. Your rooftop needs to support the combined weight of the mounting structures and the panels. A rooftop must be free of any shadows cast by surrounding structures or objects because most homes in India are constructed too close to one another.

6. Are there any tax benefits for your residential solar investment?
Household electricity is not currently eligible for any tax incentives. However, the investment is worthwhile, though, because the savings on electricity bills alone are substantial.

After investing in such sophisticated technologies and energy sources, it becomes crucial to protect your home against any unforeseen contingencies. In such cases, the best home insurance in India can also assist you in significantly reducing your financial outlay by protecting your home, its structure, and content from unexpected loss or damages.

Click HERE to buy the best home 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.

Accidents, unfortunately, happen far too frequently. They cause vehicle owners to pay for auto repairs, treating injuries, and increased insurance premiums when accidents occur. A small error might lead your car to be totaled in an instant. Purchasing a policy from a reliable motor insurance company in India secures you and your vehicle from various hazards and damages that could cause financial losses.

We repeatedly observe the same trends that lead to collision incidents. To decode this most common issue, we're presenting the most typical crash types and accident-prevention advice to make the roads safer.

1. Front-impact collisions:
When the front of your vehicle collides with another car or object, it is called a front-impact accident, accounting for 54% of all auto accidents. It can result from wrong-lane driving or a poor indication by the approaching vehicle from the front, especially while making turns.

How to avoid them:
Modify your driving according to the circumstances, such as slick roads or other weather-related issues. Give yourself more time to react and take control by driving more slowly in the rain and using indicators while taking turns. Keep your focus on the road and avoid any distractions.

2. Rear-end collisions:
Heavy commuter traffic on roads and thoroughfares, over-speeding, aggressive driving, and leaving insufficient room for the car in front of you are the common causes of rear-end collisions.

How to avoid them:
Driver distraction accounts for 89% of rear-end collisions. Avoid being distracted by putting the phone down, even in driving mode, and adjusting your audio. Additionally, stay aware of your surroundings and avoid tailgating by not maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front.

3. Parked-car collisions:
In crowded parking lots, bumper dents are all too typical. They occur when several vehicles travel in various directions or while reversing out of a parking space.

How to avoid them:
Parking lots can make viewing your surroundings challenging, especially when reversing. Before leaving a parking space, survey the area and use your rear-view mirror effectively. Park a bit further away from other vehicles.

4. Side-impact collisions:
Side impacts between cars travelling in different lanes parallel to one another are the norm in cases of sideswipes. This kind of accident accounts for 27% of fatal passenger crashes.

How to avoid them:
Refrain from speeding to beat the yellow light. Instead, be extra cautious and always check both ways at stop signs and traffic lights. Check your blind spot before changing lanes, and watch for sudden lane changes from other motorists.

5. Hydroplaning collisions:
Since the tyres can't touch the pavement when you hydroplane, you have little control over the direction of the automobile, which almost definitely results in a collision. More than 10% of car fatalities yearly are related to wet roadways.

How to avoid them:
Stop accelerating, and don't stamp your foot on the brakes if your car does hydroplane. Instead, keep the pressure constant and let the automobile slow down. Make sure the tread on your tyres isn't too worn out. When driving through significant road puddles, proceed slowly.

Although there are many steps you may take to lessen the risk of accidents, theft, injuries, or damage to your car, it's not always possible to avoid the unexpected. In road accidents, collisions are a significant factor in injury and fatalities. We recommend purchasing a comprehensive auto insurance policy from a trusted motor insurance company in India. This will protect you and your vehicle against various damages and provide monetary compensation for expenses resulting from theft, fire, natural disasters, third-party liabilities, accidents, and other tragedies.

Click HERE to learn more about the policies offered by 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.

After purchasing your home, maintaining and protecting it becomes the highest-ranked priority. Keeping a clutter-free home helps you bring positivity and a better sense of well-being. While buying the best home insurance policy in India can help shift the burden of contingencies like burglary, vandalism, etc., how do we safeguard our homes from habits like hoarding and stockpiling?

If you find it challenging to keep your home clutter-free, here is a short guide to maintaining and optimising your space.

1. Identify clutter:
Our physical, mental, and emotional lives can become cluttered with irrelevant items. But what appears to be clutter may be an extraordinary item for you. Physical clutter usually occurs when we have too much stuff and no orderly mechanisms to store them. Owning less stuff makes your home clutter-free and more accessible. Having less material also positively affects our time, lives, and energy.

2. Get rid of the extra:
Eliminating the surplus items that consume our lives, time, and energy is the first step in keeping your home clutter-free. Clutter can be described as having too much stuff in a limited space, resulting in a disorganised home. Slowly navigate from room to room while using this filter to weed out items that are not required.

3. Avoid acquiring too many possessions:
Clutter can be efficiently managed by effective space management. You need to understand that the goods cost more than what is listed as their final retail price. We must alter our perspective and assess our purchases differently to stop the accumulation of goods in our houses. Start by asking yourself these questions before making a purchase –
● When I get it home, will there be a place to store it?
● Exactly why am I purchasing it?
● What value does it bring to our home and well-being?

4. Establish routines to manage your clutter:
Finding and creating routines to effectively manage your belongings will be the easiest way to remove the surplus. After removing the excess, it will be easier to identify the practices that keep your living environment clutter-free. Also, you'll find it simpler to adopt these habits once you've experienced the independence and stress-free lifestyle that comes with living clutter-free.
Clutter draws more clutter, and it needs to be eliminated. Create healthy habits for your family to control how your home's possessions are used regularly. They will be simpler to apply once you've identified them.

5. Plan decluttering maintenance times:
The most crucial step is to make a timetable and follow it. You can do this daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, or seasonal. Remember, you need to declutter and organise regularly.
You'll feel better about your clutter-free home if you're disciplined about following through with your maintenance program. The more time passes between your regular sessions, the more you'll notice that your house could be cleaner and more orderly.

Building habits around clearing up excess clutter should be prioritised in your daily routine. The critical components to living in a clutter-free environment are recognising and knowing what to do with it and having the discipline to carry it through.

The beautiful thing about decluttering your house is that your efforts will have a long-lasting good impact on your sense of self-worth and how you regard your living space. While this will help protect the area inside your home and make better choices as per your tastes, buying the best home insurance policy in India provides the safety of external protection for your house.

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.

The first impression your house has on the visitors can be everlasting as they leave. It is a huge deal to keep your home tidy, chic, and beautiful. It can make you garner a lot of accolades from your fellow friends and family members.

However, the whole process can be tedious as the remodelling or redesigning can take time and effort. What if we tell you that you can make your house look appealing in a few hours? As shocking as it may sound, we have curated a list of the best ways to spice up your home’s aesthetic appeal. These ways are innovative, easy, and do not require much time or money.

Also, your house has a high perceived value and should be well protected. Hence, you must consider purchasing home insurance to keep your home and belongings safe from contingent events like burglary, vandalism, natural calamities, property destruction, etc.

However, if you are planning to make your home look better and more appealing to the guests or want to refresh the look of your home as per changing trends or your taste, then take a closer look at the following points.

1. Make your lighting better:
Lighting can make a big difference to your home appeal. You must have bright, chic, and charismatic lighting around your house. You can also spice up your bedroom lights by adding a touch of fairy lights or mood lighting. An addition of golden-hued lights to the dining area and living room adds to the ambiance.

2. Conceal the garbage bags and dustbins:
Nobody likes to see trash lying around in their homes. It can create a terrible impression on your visitors. When guests come over, you must thoroughly scan your house and conceal your garbage bags. Put them in a place that is not easily visible to your guests. A permanent solution could be to switch up your interiors to create a covered dustbin storage section.

3. Trim your lawn:
If you have a lawn, you must trim the grass before guests visit. You can also discard the weeds and pull them out from the yard. Additionally, spray fertiliser all over the lawns. A gentle trim can make a lot of difference to your home’s appeal in minutes.

4. Create symmetry:
Who does not like symmetry? You must follow a symmetrical pattern while displaying accessories, decorative pieces, and even lights. From your door frame to the lights on the lawn, make sure everything is balanced. It can thoroughly elevate the visual appeal of your home by manifolds.

5. Elevate your front door:
The front door is the first thing every visitor sees before entering your house. You can make it look more appealing by adding simple door decor to it. You can hang a wreath of pastel colours or any floral designs you like. Do not overdo it. Keep it simple yet elegant.

These simple yet effective tips can spruce up your house's visual appeal in minutes. You do not need much money, effort, or even skills to complete it. These quick, effortless tasks bring about a significant change around your home. You will surely get a lot of appreciation from your fellow visitors.

While considering the options for revamping your home’s aesthetic appeal, we also urge you to consider purchasing home insurance to rely upon if things go wrong.

Click HERE to buy the best home 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.

Driving is a tricky activity that requires extreme responsibility. One minor mistake can land you in serious trouble. It is always advisable to take extra precautions while driving. Be it a two-wheeler or four-wheeler, one should be cautious while driving, such as following all the traffic rules and being mindful of your surroundings.

Driving along heavy vehicles can be challenging, as they are different from other vehicles. They are so heavy that the controls are not always in the driver's arena. It can become dysfunctional and cause havoc on the road. Therefore, driving carefully around heavy vehicles is always recommended to avoid collisions.

Drivers of light vehicles must always be on high alert when around heavy vehicles. While collisions between vehicles of any size are disastrous and result in significant physical, mental, and financial damages, one between a heavy and light vehicle can be catastrophic.

Purchasing motor insurance from a reliable motor insurance company and following the below-stated tips can help you safely and confidently drive alongside heavy vehicles.

1. Always maintain distance:
Heavy vehicles can be intimidating to drive alongside, even as a beginner or an experienced driver. Crashes are common when other cars are driving too close to them. You need to maintain a safe distance from all heavy vehicles. Additionally, you should always maintain adequate distance from other cars as well. This will give you ample time to apply the brakes in an emergency.

2. Do not overtake:
Trucks or loading vehicles require a lot of space while turning on roads. It also prevents them from looking at the rear end of the truck. Your car can hence fall upon the blind spot. To prevent this, you should always give the heavy vehicle enough time to turn completely. Refrain from overtaking these vehicles or turning quickly in front of them. Slow down and wait for them to pass.

3. Have a firm grip on the steering wheel:
You must maintain your grip on the steering wheel. Air turbulence is created whenever a heavy vehicle is driving in front, which can be a problem for your car. Large vehicles can also throw loose gravel, dust, or snow that can hinder your vision. You need to be mindful and aware while driving behind them. Ensure that your windshield wipers are functioning properly to maintain proper visibility. Use horn, passing light, and indicators appropriately to ask for a side.

4. Be mindful of the lanes:
It is always recommended to follow the lane rule or discipline diligently while you drive on the road. This also means that you should not shift lanes hastily. It can lead to accidents sooner than later. It is because trucks take time to move and slow down. They may not see your vehicle approaching if you instinctively shift your lanes. As they will have no time to react, this can be dangerous for both vehicles.

5. Night time rules:
The night time is already tricky for driving, but heavy traffic makes it more challenging. With heavy vehicles in sight, the situation can get worse. Night time observes heavy truck traffic, making it daunting for cars and bikes to navigate. It is recommended not to use high-beam headlights at night. It can blind the vision of the truck drivers resulting in an accident.

You must follow these guidelines carefully while driving alongside a heavy vehicle. Although challenging, staying safe and sound while driving around them is possible. While a comprehensive car insurance policy from a motor insurance company protects you from the costs of an accident, it is better to be safe than sorry. Always follow safe driving practices irrespective of the time and ensure that your car insurance is active.

Click HERE to buy the best insurance from a reliable motor insurance company.

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.

Insurance policies can be tricky! You need to fully understand the policy terms & conditions before you sign the dotted lines. The government has set up many regulations to implement insurance rules in India efficiently.

Hence it becomes imperative to fill out the insurance policy papers yourself. If you do the formalities through an agent, you might face problems later. You need to know everything about the premium, risks, disclosures, etc. This can also cause the claim to be rejected in due time, which can be devastating, especially if you're in an emergency.

You should always be cautious about everything that you disclose to your insurer. This involves the disclosure of your materialistic goods, qualifications, medical history, income, bills, and so on. The more you disclose rightfully, the better. It is vital for all health and general insurance India. So, regardless of the insurance you're applying for, disclosure is essential.

Let's look at the things to disclose to your insurer while taking a policy or filling a claim, as they increase the chance of a successful claim.

1. Income:
It is one of the best things to be disclosed early on. Your income needs to be revealed whether you're employed permanently in a company or as a freelancer. The job designation, salary, and experience are also taken into consideration. The more experience one has, the greater their expertise. This also means that they are not eligible for hazardous work. All this contributes towards a successful claim.

2. Material possessions:
It is essential to disclose all the material assets that you have. From your house to your car, you need to declare them all. It also involves any land that you own. You should disclose anything materialistic as well as expensive at all times. Adding them later while raising a claim decreases your chance of getting a successful claim.

3. Occupation:
Your occupation directly correlates to occupational risk. It assesses the risk of accidents and even the wellness of an individual. The work done by the individuals is of prime importance. It helps in determining the claims as well. The risk assessment of a particular occupation also affects the premium paid by the individual for a health insurance policy.

4. Medical history:
Insurers give the medical history of the individual prime importance. It provides a brief insight into the history of illnesses an individual has suffered and the risk they bear. If it is more severe, the premium will go up significantly. Serious issues like heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes can increase the premium. They must be considered and disclosed to ensure you purchase the right policy with appropriate coverage that leads to successful claims in case of contingent events against which you are insured.

5. Family history:
This is an essential element that will determine the extent of the illnesses in individuals. If there are genetic disorders, it will also mean that the individual is at a greater risk of developing them. It can make the insurance company more cautious while assessing the individual's health or life insurance risk profile. Incorrect disclosure or misrepresentation of such facts leads to the rejection of claims.

You should reveal these critical elements to implement a successful claim. Material disclosures are of utmost importance as they determine the success of a claim. If not disclosed at the right time, they can cause problems later. You must follow these rules diligently while purchasing non-general and general insurance India. Good luck!

Click HERE to buy the best general 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.

Most people own numerous credit cards from single or multiple banks. While using a credit card does give you a specific advantage, not paying its dues on time can affect your loan and premium.

Have you heard about credit scores? A credit score is a term that describes a debtor's credibility, which is evaluated before availing of any financial services provided by banks or private finance companies.

Whether it is about taking a loan, applying for a credit card, or purchasing insurance, your credit score matters. It is considered to keep a high credit rating to ensure motor insurance India with a lower premium. Let's learn more about your credit score and how it affects your chances of lowering your premium charges.

What is a credit score?
A person's capacity to make timely debt payments is indicated by their credit score. In other words, a credit score is a numerical reflection of your creditworthiness. It is determined by several factors, including:
● Current loans
● Currently available credit
● History of repayment of loans and bills

Any bank will label a customer's credit rating with a numerical score ranging from 300 to 900. A person with a higher credit score is more likely to receive loan approval rapidly. Your credit score defines the level of financial risk you may represent to a financial institution when you seek a loan or insurance.

As mentioned above, an individual with a better credit score will likely get a car loan and insurance quickly. Moreover, they are also eligible for a lower insurance premium. Therefore, improve your credit rating for maximum benefits before applying for a loan or insurance.

How can your credit score lower your car insurance premium?

Banks and other financial institutions look for people with higher credit scores as they are more likely to pay their dues on time. Besides getting better loan options with a higher credit score, banks give insurance plans at lower premiums.

As a corollary, a low credit score may make you pay a higher premium for motor insurance India. Check your credit score, see what factors are affecting it, and identify what changes you can make to improve it.

How to check your credit score?

It only takes a few minutes for anyone to check their credit score online for free. Enter the essential details like name, mobile number, bank name, etc., and the tool will quickly determine your credit ratings.

While the free tool gives limited information, a paid tool with premium services gives exhaustive information about your credit score and tips to improve the ratings.

What is a good credit score?

A credit score of around 750 or above is considered a good credit rating. The higher your credit score, the more your chances of getting loan approval and better insurance plans. While increasing your credit score may seem challenging, you can improve it in minimum time with better planning and information. Here are some tips you can follow to improve your credit score:
● Always maintain your Credit Utilization Ratio within 30%
● Avoid using multiple credit cards at one time
● Ensure not to apply for loan applications in short periods
● Reduce the number of loans
● Pay loan EMIs and credit card bills on time
● Use credit cards within manageable limits

Besides these, you can talk with your bank to learn different ways to improve your credit score. It is necessary to keep your financial records as clean as possible as it impacts your credit ratings. Check your credit history today and work on the items that need your attention to reduce your premium for motor insurance India significantly.

Click HERE to buy reliable motor 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.

Your house might look clean, but is it completely dust-free? If you look closely in those corners, you will realise how much dirt has piled up. The filth in the tricky corners of your house is hard to clean and might eventually result in health issues due to the lack of hygiene.

Dust allergies are the most common problems faced in such situations. It becomes difficult for an allergy-prone person to live a normal lifestyle amidst unclean living premises. If you ignore cleaning dirty sections of your home, then it creates clutter. This impacts mental and physical health, affecting your behaviour, work, etc.

Having discussed some downsides of dust accumulation in the nook and corners of your house, it is essential to understand the solutions to the already identified problem. This blog will discuss the best ways to clean the problematic corners or sections of your house, so it remains clean and hygienic.

1. Be watchful about those spiderwebs:

Spider webs can be the bane of cleaning. They are challenging to remove and grow even in the narrowest corners of the house. The sticky spider webs also impact the appliances like fans that are often not cleaned.
You can use a dusting cloth with an extendable arm or handle to reach high and deep corners of your house. The cloth fibre will collect and clean the dust instead of scattering it around.

2. High cupboards and cabinets:

Cleaning the upper surface of high drawers, cupboards and cabinets is tough to perform. You will need a ladder and equipment which can pivot. This would help you reach far away corners and edges of the surfaces of various furniture.
You can use a microfibre or dusting cloth to clean the cupboards and cabinets so that the dust does not get scattered. Cleaning fluid can be formulated by mixing up dishwashing liquid, water, and ammonia commonly used in households. This can give you cleaner and shinier surfaces.

3. Cleaning the sinkholes:

All the remaining leftovers from your plates are usually accumulated in the sinkholes. If the size of the bits is less than the holes, they pass through the pipes. If not, they end up on the surface of the sink. It also results in the unnecessary clogging of the drainage pipes.
If not taken care of, they might release bad odour and even attract insects. You can use rubber gloves to remove the leftovers from the sinkholes and use cold running water to clean. Using baking soda or citrus peels to remove the foul odour is a good home remedy for sink issues.

4. Don't forget the washroom crannies:

Whenever you go to the washroom, take a closer look at the crannies. You will see spots that are difficult to remove. If not cleaned in time, these spots can get stubborn and are impossible to eliminate.
But don't worry. You can start by using a dry brush to scrub off the upper layer of these marks and spots. Use a cleaning liquid or warm water and soft scrub. Later, gently rub the surface to eliminate the layers steadily. And then, use a vacuum cleaner to suck the debris before giving the space a final wash with water and detergent (if needed).

Deep corners are home spaces that are neglected while routine cleaning and later create hygiene problems. Using these methods, you can easily access the difficult corners and ensure that your home is clean to its core!

Apart from deep cleaning, your objective must be to ensure your home's safety. Won't it be wise to discuss options to safeguard your home against large-scale unprecedented circumstances? There can be multiple situations that can be challenging for your house. To protect your safe abode, you must purchase the best home insurance policy in India to get the best coverage at the time of need. Magma HDI's home insurance is your best advantage to have safer homes and good peace of mind.

Click HERE to learn more about the benefits of India's best home 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.

Travel is a great way to expand one's horizons. It gives you a different perspective and is necessary to re-energise the mundane lifestyle. It is a great way to rejuvenate yourself after a hectic schedule and become more productive and enthusiastic at work.

However, it's a well-known fact that travel can get expensive. From finding the right flights to booking the right hotel, a lot needs to be done, and the challenging part is the hefty unexpected expenses. So, to save you from falling prey to the hidden cost charged by hotels, airlines or travel agencies, this blog gives you an insight into mindful travel techniques.

1. Baggage fees:

Airlines charge massively for excess baggage. Extra luggage means extra cost. It is impossible to unpack luggage at the last minute. Therefore, always carefully check the size and weight requirements and pack accordingly. Keep a habit of packing light and avoid stuffing your bags with unnecessary things. You may also practice vacuum packing, which helps keep your bags clutter-free.

2. The pesky phone bill:

We live in a digital age where smartphones are crucial to travel for safety and convenience. Be it clicking photos, talking to new people using translation, booking cabs and hotels, everything is done using our phones these days.
If you are planning a long trip to a foreign destination, it is imperative to know that international roaming charges cost a fortune and will drain your funds if not managed mindfully. For an extended travel period, it's better to buy a local sim to save money.

3. Departure Taxes:

One of the most unexpected and annoying expenses is a departure tax. Some countries charge you money for simply exiting their country. This also applies to the layover at these places. Browse the internet thoroughly so you don't get blindsided.

4. Transportation:

Transportation has been made very easy in many regions worldwide, which might be why new travellers often overlook this expense. But getting out of the airport and taking a cab to the hotel might cost you a significant amount of money.
To avoid this situation, thoroughly research the modes of transport available in the place you're visiting. Choose public transport if that is an option. Better yet, find a hotel with transportation included in their services.

5. Emergencies and medical expenses:

When travelling to a new place, especially if you're visiting another country, it's important to remember that the food, drink, and lifestyle of their habitants might not suit everyone. There is a chance of falling sick, and one must be prepared for all emergencies. Prepare a first aid kit and a stash of the common medicines for general problems like headaches and stomach aches.
Falling sick in another country costs a fortune, especially because foreigners are not included in the national healthcare system. While this cost is unavoidable, checking insurance policies online that fit your needs will help reduce your spending.

6. Trip cancellation:

Cancelling a trip is something no traveller wants to experience. You'll lose a significant amount of money on something you didn't even get to enjoy. An excellent way to avoid these expenses is to research the best and buy insurance policy online. These policies may reimburse you for the flights and sometimes even the hotels you're staying at.

Always keep some extra funds with you to buy small souvenirs and make the trip more memorable. Although we wish for the best in every situation, it's wise to be prepared for less than ideal situations. Buy insurance policy online to rest assured during the trip. With these effective tips, you can cut costs without compromising on the fun part of your trip. Happy travelling!

Click HERE to buy insurance policy 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.

Veganism is a new trend that has drawn the significant attention of Indians. But, what is veganism? The dictionary defines veganism as the practice of eating only plant-based food. For example, plant-based alternatives to your regular cow’s milk are almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, etc. Consumerism has given veganism a new branding, which means an abundance of mock meat, vegan cheese, vegan butter, tofu, etc., in the western and European markets. The list is endless.

An average Indian’s meal plan is predominantly vegetarian, consequently vegan. Hence, more often than not, people eat what is readily available. However, if you intend to travel as a vegan, you might lack options to meet your daily dietary needs.

In this article, we will look at everything you can do to ensure that you enjoy your vacation without compromising your food preferences.

1. Fruit and vegetables:

While travelling, take a tour of the local stores and buy seasonal fruits and vegetables. Vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, beetroots, etc., are great ingredients for salads and sandwiches. You can prepare either of the options in your hotel and carry it with you for later use. Chop and store them in a tiffin inside the mini-fridge provided by the hotel. This will ensure that you always have a backup in case you can't find anything outside.

2. Carry vegan snack options:

Make a run to the nearest convenience store and pick up vegan options that suit your taste. Cup noodles, bread, protein bars, nuts, etc., are convenient and readily available vegan options that you can bank on. You can rest assured that you have ready-to-make food options available during emergencies.

3. Explore vegan restaurants and eateries:

Travelling is all about exploring and trying new things. Include restaurants and dishes that you never tried before in your itinerary. Talk to locals to understand the vegan culture in the places you visit.
This is an intelligent way of knowing all the good vegan places to visit. Veganism is a trend that has been growing for the last few years, which is why many restaurants have a good selection of unique vegan dishes.

4. Talk to your hotel:

Before booking your accommodation, you can talk to the hotel and notify them of your needs. If your hotel provides concierge services, they will know the best places to visit and try local dishes and vegan food. Most hotels also offer vegan food options.
However, if your hotel does not have vegan options, you can consider looking for other hotels. Look out for private villas or homestays. These are equipped with all necessary items such as a gas stove, fridge, and oven, making it easier for you to cook meals yourself.

5. Talk to the chef:

Most people still find it difficult to gauge the difference between vegans and vegetarians. This is why it becomes challenging to keep track of the food and ingredients that go into a meal. Tourists prefer to say that they are allergic to certain ingredients. Talking to the chef is the best way to ensure that these ingredients are not added to your dish. The world is still new to the idea of vegan butter and vegan cheese, so providing adequate information to the chef is essential.

These are a few ways to ensure a stress-free trip with your vegan choices. An important tip is to learn a few phrases in the local language to let somebody know of your allergies and food preferences.

Your food choices should be a matter of joy in your life. Do not forget to experiment with new cuisines and dishes for a wholesome travel experience. Travelling vegan might still be easy, but travelling without proper safety is challenging. As a responsible traveller, do not forget to buy general insurance online to ensure your safety during travel. General insurance acts as a safety net for you and your loved ones for any unprecedented expenses you might face.

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.

"To-be" parents enjoy investing time and money to transform their child's room into a small world where their baby feels comfortable. They carefully plan and curate their thoughts about the room, including toys, fancy paints, and furniture for the newborns.

These elements just don't make the room attractive but develop an interest in the child. As babies have excellent observation skills, decorating their room with colours and playful stuff will help them enjoy new experiences.

Parents get tensed while selecting the theme and the other decorative articles. There are various options available in the market, which make the to-be-parents more confused. We are here with a few fantastic themes you can choose from. You can browse through the blog and think of ideas with fresh perspectives. Add a personal touch and get ready to welcome your newborn into the world!

1. Space-time exploration:

You can decorate your baby's room with various maps, flags of different countries, ships, rockets, space shuttles, planets, stars, the sun, the moon, and other images that will bring curiosity. You can also use glow-in-the-dark stickers of the stars and the planets to cap off the night sky.

2. Let's go to the zoo:

A zoo decor would be a great idea to give the room a natural and jungle look. You can create grasses and graphics of different animals and birds to excite your baby. Use colours that pop off to stimulate your child's mind and develop their brains from a very young age. You can also put up a small canopy in the room, giving it a "camping in the woods" feel to engage your child’s creativity and interest in learning new experiences.

3. Beneath the ocean:

Paint the whole room blue. You can depict the diverse life forms in the ocean. Put up pictures of cute whales, sharks, fishes, jellyfishes, coral reefs, etc. Make use of glow-in-the-dark jellyfish stickers displaying their original nature and give the room a complete underwater look. You may put up a bedsheet with designs of fishes or buy cushions in the shape of sea animals to bring more marine character to the room.

4. Cartoon characters are fun:

You can draw and paint famous children's cartoon characters and elements from favourite cartoon shows. You can paint them yourself or call an expert to decorate your baby's room. Select different props from the show, and put the soft toy versions in the crib, chair, or floor.

5. Kids love beaches:

Babies love playing in the sun. And beaches are a whole carnival for them. You can use light yellow wallpaper to display the sand and decorate it with stickers, pictures, or other marine items and plushies of seashells, crabs, forts, oysters, etc. This would complete the beach vibes you want to create.

These were a few exciting theme ideas that you can implement while decorating your child's room. Take your time, research thoroughly, and design a room your baby will enjoy. After all, your baby will be spending most of its developing years in that room.

To be a parent brings many responsibilities. Along with the decoration, it would be wise to consider protecting your home. A home is where you make the most of the memories with your children and loved ones.

The damages to home come uninvited, but you must be prepared beforehand to tackle all the mishaps. Damage to property due to theft or natural disasters can drain your pockets. So, invest in home insurance India to put less monetary pressure and assure guaranteed compensation for these damages. Reap the benefits of providing hassle-free protection for your home and make endless memories with your family.

Click HERE to know more about how you can buy 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.

Watching the beautiful horizon from the open deck is a mesmerising experience. Cruise trips seem elite and sound exciting. It is a paradise for ocean lovers. From solo ventures to family getaways, the cruise journeys welcome travellers to enjoy an unforgettable maritime holiday opportunity. Sailing couldn't have been more fun with several recreational activities, games, and cuisine organised onboard. Every moment on the ship reflects a beautiful memory to cherish forever!

Planning your first cruise trip can seem daunting without proper information about bookings, the right time to travel, the expenses, and much more.

This blog is your guide to understanding all the information you need to know before you board the ship. Carefully go through the pointers and chart all the requirements to plan a hassle-free cruise trip. Here’s all you need to know.

1. Timing is everything:

You need to figure out the right time to sail. Finalise your destinations and understand their sailing season. Look up the details of the touchpoints and the locations you wish to visit on the cruise company’s website or reservation site and research their sailing calendar.

2. Choosing the right cruise:

Different cruise liners provide you with various amenities and a range of activities to do while you’re on your sea voyage. Carefully look at different packages and determine which one fits your vacation goals and budget. Choosing the right cruise is important as they will take you on a journey to foreign countries and continents. Multiple onboard activities will keep you engaged throughout your travel.

3. Intent of travel is important:

Determining how and why you wish to take a cruise trip would be best. It is essential to determine your travel purpose as you will be out in the sea longer than expected. And when there are fewer locations to step down and explore and more sea exploration, things can get a little challenging due to the feeling of stagnation. Hence it is essential to figure out how confident and strongly willing you are to take a sea voyage.

4. Book the cruise:

While planning your first-ever cruise trip, you should book with someone trustworthy. Or some of your close contacts have already experienced their services and recommend them. Given the time of the journey and the heavy expenditure, you must ensure to do research regarding the company before you go ahead and book your tickets.

5. What should your itinerary look like:

Foremost finalise your budget and the location before you head out in search of the best cruise trips and their itineraries. Fixing your budget will help you narrow down your list of options and help you efficiently choose the suitable itinerary that covers all your expectations.

6. Choosing the perfect cabin:

You will have several options to pick from when you are finalising your cabin for the cruise journey. But how to choose the right cabin? If you’re easily seasick, looking for cabins with a sea view will not be advisable. You can choose higher or lower cabins according to your preferences, which do not face the sea but open your doorway into the activity area, making you feel more alive!

Certain other pointers like checking on your travel documents: your passports, visa, identity proof, tickets, etc., are paramount. Keep your health as the priority. Make all necessary preparations regarding the medications you might need beforehand to avoid the stress of getting sick when onboard.

While planning your first cruise trip can be stressful yet exciting, it is always helpful to be prepared for any travel or medical emergencies in advance. Unprecedented circumstances can result in panic situations while travelling. Don’t let health emergencies spoil your excitement of enjoying your first cruise trip.

We advise you to browse through Magma HDI’s general insurance plans and purchase the one which would cover your travel insurance in the best way possible. Purchase the best general insurance plan and sail carefree. Bon voyage!

Click HERE to know more about how general insurance plans can make your travel experience risk-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.

If you are buying a new house or renovating the existing one, having the perfect and attractive walls should be your focus. The most prominent part of your home is the walls. They capture many memories and provide a lot of scopes to try out new styles and give your home a refreshing touch.

Investing thought, time, and money in decorating the walls will turn your home into a more welcoming space. But how do you finalise the look of your walls? Would they look better with wallpapers, or would texture paints achieve the finish you attempted?

We will try to cover all your wall decor questions. Let's get started!

1. Types of texture paints:

Various forms of texture paints, including emulsions, distempers, etc., are available in the market. They can either be water or oil-based and are used for different purposes. You can use solid colours and texture paints to give your walls a bold look. Apply other techniques to create patterns and textures on your walls to give them a zing.

2. Wallpapers:

Wallpapers come with a variety of patterns and textures. Using the right tools and proper measurements, you can stick them on your walls. They come with a solid adhesive and are easy to paste. You can pick the wallpaper's designs as per your taste and the look you want to achieve for the walls.

Wallpapers and texture paint – how are they similar?

● Both are available with many options and shades

● Both have tailor-made options to match your usage and decor plans

● Both require some pre-preparation time to set things up

● Both help you achieve your decor goals

Wallpapers or texture paints: Which is the best for your home walls?

If you are starting from scratch (a blank wall), both wallpapers and texture paints require a similar time to set things up and get started. But removing any wallpaper or colour is a tedious job. After removing the previous coat, you must prepare the wall before pasting the wallpaper or starting with the primer for the texture paint.

Application of wallpaper takes less time as compared to texture paint. You need to apply at least two coats to achieve the texture and pattern you aim for, while it takes about twenty-four hours for the wallpaper to stick appropriately and achieve the best finish. Texture paints can take up to forty-eight hours or more.

Textured paints are your best bet in bathrooms and kitchens. High moisture does not gel well with adhesives. Hence, applying wallpaper in the bathroom and the kitchen would be a massive waste of resources, and there's a risk that it might come off or get wet and torn. Variations of textured paints can be used outdoors, while wallpapers are more appropriate for enriching the interiors.

You might need help from professionals during the application of wallpapers. Textured paints and wallpapers are both cost-effective, but wallpapers might get a bit expensive if you are looking for a specific design.

Now that we have discussed the significant aspects of the two options, you can make a decision. And while you are at it, consider protecting your home against unforeseen circumstances and tragedies. You would want your home to be safe from unexpected problems that take a massive toll on your finances and happiness.

Fret not! This is avoidable with the provision of purchasing home insurance. You can explore your options and buy the best home insurance in India which suits your needs. Carefully look at all the terms and conditions before finalising the deal. There are multiple home insurance options that can help you have the best premium and provide extended coverage.

Click HERE to know more about the best home 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.

A cup of tea, a favourite book, and some music in the background while you feel the sprays of monsoon on your face. That’s what dreams are made for your casual & chic home. We all have unique ideas of our happy space and how we want to decorate them according to our tastes. Some of us are truly blessed with good aesthetic sense, while others have to depend heavily on the internet for ideas and inspiration.

After spending hours on various websites and choosing the best options, you create the perfect room for yourself. What about your balconies? This article will discuss some exciting and economical ways to revamp your balcony to make it the perfect cosy space for you to unwind.

1. Plants are the perfect backdrop:

Adding plants is one way to add colour and freshness to your balcony. You can opt for flowering or nonflowering plants depending on your choice. If you are a beginner, go for low-maintenance plants like the snake plant, money plant, spider grass, etc. You can also use different prints and colours on flowering pots to add more character to the balcony.
Artificial turf is a game-changer if you want more greens with minimum effort. Homeowners use these to give their balconies the feel of a miniature carpet garden that adds more comfort and cosiness to the entire space.

2. Sitting arrangements beyond ordinary:

Since your balcony is susceptible to rains and sun, one way to ensure the sitting area is not perishable by using metal chairs and tables. These bring a certain antique charm to your balcony without overbearing on your pocket. You can also add swings to make it more fun and quirkier. Adding rugs, floor pillows, and pouffes can make the space seem instantly cosy, and in the event of rain, you can quickly put them back inside.

3. Add lights for vibrant nights:

Adding tiny yellow lights and lanterns is probably the best way to make your balcony beautiful and warm for the evenings. You can further add scented candles if you have visitors, making it the perfect hangout spot for you and your guests. This way, you may even bring the romance right to your balconies and plan perfect dinner dates with your beloved or instead just indulge in your favourite pass time.

4. Textured wallpapers:

Using textured wallpapers can bring a new life to your balconies. Depending on the plants and other furniture used, you can either select a bright pop of colour or an understated neutral look. Wallpapers are a foolproof way to instantly elevate the interiors and add a certain elegance to the space.

5. Shade and privacy:

Most people do not spend time on their balconies because of a lack of privacy or unfavourable weather conditions. Use an awning or extended coverage to protect your balcony from direct sunlight or rains. Opting for a retractable or a folding roof is a choice that you must consider to change and alter the look of your balcony.

These are a few ways to turn your old balcony into a cosy living space. Remember to not go overboard with the decoration. A cluttered space kills the purpose of building a comfortable space for yourself. Talking to an interior designer or an architect can help you understand how you can modify the area without spending a lot of money.

Add value to your home and memories by investing in home insurance. Home insurance is a safety net for you and your family that will help you in case of any damages or losses. Along with beautification, you need to ensure your happy place's safety from mishaps like theft, fire breakout, etc.

Click HERE to learn more about home 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 car promises exciting and thrilling adventures. Whether going on long road trips, making impromptu plans to meet up with your friends, or simply driving around the town while playing music, these are just a few of the benefits of owning a car. Every car owner wants to keep a well-maintained vehicle with glowing interiors and dashboard.

But how can you maintain a shiny car dashboard? The dashboard has nooks and corners that can quickly accumulate dust particles. Many of us eat inside the car, making it susceptible to spills and oil stains.

In this article, we will take a look at a few ways in which you can ensure the cleanliness of your dashboard.

1. Dusting:
One of the easiest yet most efficient ways of cleaning the dashboard is by dusting it regularly. Spare five minutes of your time to wipe down the entire dashboard with a dry cloth before leaving your vehicle. This will help reduce the build-up of dirt and dust and help in easy cleaning every time. You can also use a tiny brush with soft bristles to reach the crevices and folds that are not easily accessible by hand.

2. Vacuum:
Using vacuum cleaners once every month is another good way of ensuring clean dashboards. Vacuum cleaners help pick up tiny dust particles within the vents and buttons. This also increases the efficiency of ducts and helps with faster cooling when you turn on the air conditioner.

3. Cleaning solution:
Using a cleaning solution on the dashboard helps get rid of any greasiness. Spray some cleaning solution onto the surface of the dashboard and clean it thoroughly. Once done, use a damp cloth to wipe down the parts to avoid staining. Follow this up with a dry cloth to get rid of any residue. Remember to do this in small batches to ensure that the solution does not dry and leaves any patches on the surface.

4. Sanitise:
Since the dashboard is the most accessed part of the car, sanitising the drawers, buttons, steering, etc., is a good idea. Even if you are the only person using the vehicle, it is good to sanitise the area to prevent germs and bacteria.

5. Take special care of the infotainment unit:
Everyone inside the car often uses the infotainment unit. Use screen wipes and a microfiber cloth for best results. Microfiber can pull up dirt without causing any harm to the screen. Avoid using chemicals directly as you will constantly be touching the unit and are susceptible to being in contact with the same. Using harsh chemicals can also lead to damage to the anti-glare coatings on the console.

These are a few ways in which you can clean the dashboard. Proper cleanliness ensures good health for you and your co-passengers. Clean and stain-free interiors make a statement and provide credibility to the excellent maintenance of the vehicle.

If your interiors are neglected too often, you might need to change the unit entirely, which can be expensive. Add value to your car by investing in an insurance plan with a good motor insurance company. Getting the best deal on an insurance policy can be beneficial for you, in the long run, to stay stress-free regarding the expenses associated with your car.

Click HERE to know more about motor insurance company.

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.

We all know the importance of investing in home insurance. It covers the cost of repair work and modifications in case of damages. However, there are various aspects of home insurance that you might not be aware of.

Let's look at some surprisingly strange things that might be covered under your home insurance.

1. Space debris:
Damage to your property caused by meteors, airplanes, rockets, satellites, etc., is covered under home insurance. The risk from these is listed as environmental hazards. Space debris includes both man-made things and naturally occurring objects.
Any damage caused by this debris to the structure and the homeowners' belongings is covered under home insurance. If you get injured on the premises of your house, the insurer is liable to provide you cover for all the medical expenses you incurred during your treatment.

2. Damage from plane and vehicle crash:
A plane crash in housing areas can lead to severe property damage and injuries. Other instances of crashes are when cars swerve off-road and crash into the house. Damages and injuries resulting from these crashes are also covered under the home insurance policy.
Under these circumstances, the party that caused the crash is liable to make monetary compensations for the damages incurred. If, however, their payout is limited, then your insurer steps in and pays for the rest of the expenses.

3. Damage due to civil disorder:
Any explosion, bombing, etc., arising from civil commotion can lead to property damage and vandalism. These situations lead to severe expenses and maintenance work due to heavy destruction. Property damage arising from fire, broken windows, etc., are also a few instances. If you are unable to reside inside your home due to these conditions, your insurer will cover additional living expenses such as hotel bills, meals, etc.

4. Floods and other natural disasters:
Due to increasing global warming, there has been a severe increase in natural disasters. Any damage incurred during these disasters is also covered under home insurance. Note that most insurers do not cover these, so look for insurance policies that include these factors.

5. Upgrades:
Any upgrades or modifications made due to new regulations from the local government are covered under home insurance. Opting for ordinance coverage is an excellent way to ensure that your insurer handles these expenses. Under this feature, the insurance company is liable to pay you the cost of overhauling a home or building to comply with the up-to-date building codes.

6. Identity theft:
Identity theft is a massive problem across the globe, and many fraudulent activities occur because of this. Insurance providers cover the cost of all the expenses, from legal fees to the reapplication of loans.

Insurance providers are there to help and support you in case of emergencies and other mishaps. Spending ample time on research and reading through the policy papers to ensure that you are choosing the best home insurance will help you in the long run.

Click HERE to know more about home 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.

Although travelling with kids is fun, it can also be challenging at times. Children are difficult to control and have to be constantly looked after no matter where you are. While parenting is blissful, it can be stressful during travel.

You need to ensure that you carry enough supplies for the trip, pack your essentials, and anticipate everything your kids might require during the journey. It also depends on their age, as younger kids need more attention than those old enough to carry their bags and take care of themselves.

Kids can get iffy while traveling for multiple reasons, including an unfamiliar atmosphere, too many people, deviation from the routine, and much more. But how to handle it when they get all worked up? This blog will answer that for you. By the end, you will know more about the different ways to handle your kid's mood swings while travelling.

1. Keep small toys handy:
You can distract your kids with their favourite portable toys. This will give them a sense of familiarity and allow them to have fun and stay unaffected by the crowd or the unfamiliar surroundings around them.

2. Food breaks:
Try to give your child quick snacks on the go like chocolates, biscuits, chips, or other food items they like. Giving them food and water breaks keeps their stomach full and can even help them drift off to sleep for the rest of the journey. This would keep the kids stress-free during the trip and be helpful for the parents.

3. Cartoons and shows:
Entertainment is always a saviour when it comes to calming kids during travelling. You can download their favourite shows and cartoons before heading for the trip. This will keep them occupied, and they won't be much bothered about their surroundings.

4. Activities can help:
Parents can pack different supplies for some exciting activities that the kids can indulge in. This will serve as a learning purpose while also keeping them busy. You can carry crayons, pencils, papers, board games, tokens and dice, comics, storybooks, etc., for the children to keep themselves occupied with. These pastime pursuits will engage them and enrich their knowledge while keeping their mood swings at bay.

Another easy way is to give your kids a gaming console to keep them occupied and have a relaxing trip. Next, carry travelling essentials for kids, pack their backpacks, and give them the responsibility to handle them if they are old enough. If you are travelling with a newborn, carry their diapers, warm water, milk, and a sipper.

These are some tips and tricks that parents can use to help their kids stay calm while travelling. Often children might get sick on trips, bringing you and your children into unprecedented situations. It is crucial to invest in an insurance plan to stay stress-free and protect yourself and your kids against any health-related emergencies or other unforeseen mishaps. You can check out all the available options and easily buy an insurance policy online.

Click HERE to know more about how you can buy insurance policy 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.

Upgrading electrical wiring makes an old home more secure, modernised, and habitable. This kind of renovation is easier in a recently acquired property than in an older one. Unless you have prior expertise with electrical construction, do not try to change wires on your own.

Most people instantly think of the costs and clutter involving the job. Your strategy is determined by your budget, capacity to reach the walls, ceiling, crawlspace, and the amount of rework permitted.

To clear the confusion, below are the typical steps involved in changing the wiring of a house.

1. Planning:
The better you prepare for the rewiring, the easier the procedure will be. A precise design will assist you in locating and projecting the circuits in a manner that will retain the drywall in place. A thorough layout of the existing circuitry and a precise sketch of the internal components may minimise chaos and disturbance.

2. Working prep:
This step prepares the space for the new wiring. It marks a clear route for supplying the new wire to the outlets. If you opt to undertake the prep work, clearing debris around your house's electrical outlets is crucial to ensure quick access.

3. Calculating the number of circuits:
Many times, outdated wiring may not have enough circuits to meet the energy needs of contemporary appliances, lights, and electronics. Before you begin, you must first plan your trajectories. Conduct a study on housing circuits to aid in layout planning, or contact an electrician as a consultant.

4. Remove the drywall and rewire:
The removal step consists of ripping out and taking off the old wire. Because old wiring is often stapled to the structure, it is impossible to simply take the cables out of the wall. After ensuring that the electricity has been turned off, you may cut the wire and remove the visible portion, leaving the buried cable within the division.
Some wires are placed in more accessible areas and can be taken out quickly. You can tape the new wire to the old ones, pull the old wiring out, and let the new line fall into its spot and take effect.

5. Replace:
Replacement of main and sub-panels is one of the essential steps to changing the old wiring in your house. Also, ensure that you check the condition of the panel. If it's old or does not have circuit breakers in place of fuses, it is better to replace them to prevent further damage. Replacing the panels would also require changing the wiring of your entire house. Try to find a professional electrician to accomplish this task.

Some other steps to change the old wiring in your house include:

• Taking permits from the local authorities (even if you are a homeowner).

• Hiring a good electrician.

• Identifying the access points.

• Having the right tools to complete the work and taking stringent measures to ensure everyone's safety.

It is essential that the rewiring be done correctly and by skilled specialists. If not done properly, the wires might get nicked and lead to short circuits. Furthermore, if the panel and junction boxes are not connected, it might create radiation, negatively affecting your health and even hampering the condition of your house.

Your house is your safe space. It is where you and your family live and create memories. Hence, it is essential to safeguard your home. Invest in a robust home insurance plan and protect your home from unexpected hazards. You can review the available insurance plans and purchase the best home insurance policy in India that offers you great benefits at a reasonable premium.

To get the best home insurance policy in India, click HERE.

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.

Smartphones are rapidly becoming an integral and inseparable part of our lives. These devices contain a mini virtual world within them that engrosses us with extensive features and seamless specifications. It has everything from the type of cuisine you like to what skincare serum you last purchased. Your social media account details, bank details, countless passwords, contacts and information are all stored in it.

But, what do you do if you lose your phone? In today's world, losing your phone can have significant consequences. Your details can get leaked or erased. Your money can be stolen if your account gets hacked, or you can lose important information.

The majority of phone lost cases are observed in overcrowded places, and, in some cases, the smartphone users forget their phone at public places like restaurants or shopping malls.

So, what if you have just lost your phone somewhere? Here's what you need to do to minimise the damage.

1. Keep trying your number:
It would be best to text or call your phone. The ringing would help you track it. And if your phone is lost (and not stolen), somebody would be able to answer your call and return your phone upon further communication.

2. Report:
Report the loss of your phone to your cell phone carrier. They can help you determine your phone's current location using your number. This could make it easy to retrieve your phone if it's lost in a vast crowd.
You can also deactivate your sim card to ensure that nobody can make threats and illegal fraud calls from your number.

3. Lock:
Try to lock your phone remotely. This will secure your device and restrict others from accessing your personal information. You'll get notified if someone resets it.
You can try deactivating your device too. In the case of iOS devices, you can activate "Mark as Lost", which disables your phone and send a confirmation mail to your email address.

4. Track:
You can track your phone using the GPS if you have the option active on your phone. In the case of an android device, you can log into your Google account (the one you use on your phone) and track your phone's current location using Google location history. This feature is beneficial sometimes, especially if your phone is nearby.

5. Clean:
To ensure that nobody gets access to your social media accounts and other personal information, try to wipe your phone clean if it goes missing in the crowd and you cannot retrieve it. You can use iCloud or Android device manager to erase your data from your device. Also change the passwords of all your bank accounts, social media handlers etc.

6. Monitor:
Try to monitor the activities of your phone. Keep track of any malicious and suspicious activities performed using your phone or number. Get in touch with authorities (police and phone carriers) and inform them if you find something fishy.

When you lose your phone in a crowd, contact your card companies and ask them to lock your cards and unlink your accounts so that nobody gains access to them.

The loss of your smartphone is worrisome. Insure your valuables to add an extra layer of security in case of unavoidable circumstances. You can purchase online general insurance by browsing through several options and purchasing the one that offers maximum benefits.

Click HERE to know more about how you can purchase online general 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.

It's an old adage "New or Old - Home is where the heart is". Whether you have moved into a new house or have just had your entire house renovated, you want to make sure that it is safe from calamities. You need to make sure that you can reduce the damage to your house in case there is a natural disaster and that you won’t need to pay a hefty amount trying to fix that damage. One of the best ways is to always have home insurance. With there being so many in the market, it isn’t that difficult to find the best home insurance in India. Here are some ways to secure your home against calamities: -

Get Home Insurance: Always having home insurance in place is one of the best ways to protect your house from any calamities. Home insurance will cover a certain proportion of the costs of repairing or will protect against any damage due to fire, a flood, an earthquake or other such disasters. So, if there were to be a calamity, you wouldn’t need to pay for all the costs of repairing from your own pocket; the insurance company will pay for most of it. Do a little research and choose only the best home insurance in india.

• Have a strong foundation: If you live in a house and not an apartment in a building, make sure to bolt the house to the foundation. When constructing or renovating the house, make it a point to secure the house to its foundations so it won’t be uprooted when there is an earthquake, especially if you live in an earthquake-prone region.
• Know how to turn off the utilities or electricity: When there is a natural disaster, the chances are that you won’t really have a lot of time to turn off all the electrical switches, water taps or the gas. So, you must always be prepared. Know where the main electrical board is or where the main source of the gas is, so you can just turn them off during an emergency instead of scampering around trying to turn off individual taps or switches.
• Do not put off any repairs: Whether there is a tap leaking, a hole in the wall or the roof, or the door isn’t properly hinged to the wall, do not procrastinate when it comes to fixes these problems. You cannot predict a disaster, and when it does hit, the slightest gap or the smallest hole will allow water to enter into the house and eventually flood it. In case of a storm or tornado, a loose door could ultimately break, and you wouldn’t have much protection from the strong winds or the damage they may cause.
• Try to use fire-proof materials: Trying to construct the house entirely with fire-proof material is not possible. However, the wires used must be all fire-proof. During a natural disaster, wires can possibly cause a fire, and using water to put it out would only be more dangerous. So, you must make sure that the wires you have running all over your house will not catch fire.

Being a homeowner, you need to keep a lot of things in mind to ensure that your property is safe from any damages and a natural disaster is something no one can predict so the only option is to be fully prepared.

The changing season affects our health, especially when it is winter. The chilly days are known for causing flu, cold and inviting other viral infections and allergies. There is not much we can do to prevent outdoor allergies, but we can take steps to stay safe indoors and keep our home allergy-free!

To help you with it, we have made a list of important tips for each area of your house to keep them allergy-free. Follow these steps to create a healthy environment for you and your family.

Bathroom:

Your bathroom is the most prone to mold due to the high moisture present. And the key to preventing this fungus is proper ventilation and regular cleaning:

1. Install and use an exhaust fan while showering to let out as much moisture as possible.

2. Remember to wash your towels regularly.

3. To prevent mold growth, it is best to clean your showerheads, sinks, bathtubs, and other faucets with bleach every once in a while.

4. Stagnant water can be problematic even in the bathroom, so empty your bathtubs, buckets, and sinks of any standing water and clear the drain blockage.

5. Avoid wallpapers; instead, paint your walls as mold grows under the wallpapers.

6. Cleaning is a priority; make sure to scrub the toothbrush holders, soap containers, and shelves too.

Living room and general tips:

The living room is where your guest usually hangs out the most. Therefore, it is even more critical to create a safe, comfortable, and allergy-free space for them:

1. Manage indoor plants properly. Please keep them in a dry place, check for mold growth, ensure good airflow by placing them at a proper distance and spray the soil with fungicide.

2. Pay attention to the décor. Reduce the amount of dust collecting things like stuffed animals, heavy curtains.

3. Keep your pets in a confined region and bathe them once every week.

4. Keep wall decorations to a minimum.

5. Air conditioners are perfect dehumidifiers, and they also filter out pollen and discourage cockroaches.

Bedroom:

It is our favourite huddle zone. Therefore, it is necessary to take extra measures to keep this place allergy-free:

1. Periodically wash your pillowcases, bed sheets, linens, floor mats, and curtains.

2. Try to vacuum at least once a day and use a hose to reach every corner.

3. A bed is a heaven for dust mites; it is warm, relatively humid, and has a lot of food in the form of dead skin cells; therefore, clean your bed every day and consider buying dust mite-proof covers.

4. Wash your comforters and pillows regularly.

5. Do not forget to clean your windows. Vacuum your window sills and use cleaners to wash the glass.

6. Use air filters if there is no proper ventilation through windows.

Kitchen:

Most of the allergens and diseases are born in the kitchen. But, by maintaining a clean, ventilated, and dry space, we can control the growth of allergens:

1. Do not leave the dishes uncleaned overnight. It is best to wash them instantly after use. Also, dry them; never put wet dishes in the cabinet.

2. Please do not allow the food to go down the drain, as it will block the drain, leading to mold and stinking sinks.

3. Clean your refrigerator and try to consume leftover food as soon as possible.

4. Only cleaning the countertops after cooking is not enough. Regular mopping and dusting are essential to maintain proper cleanliness.

5. Take the trash out every day as garbage bins can spread way more germs than you think.

6. Make a note of the food allergies you or your family members have. And avoid buying such food.

Considering the above tips, you will manage your home’s health and keep the spaces free from allergens. Financially safeguarding your insured belongings is never a bad idea. So, think of investing in a house insurance plan to protect your home with a promise of trusted safety.

Click HERE to know more about the house insurance plans best suited for your requirements.

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.

The mornings are lazier, and the showers are a little hotter. Hoodies are out of the cupboard; winters are here! While we are desperately seeking to warm ourselves and our houses to a more comfortable temperature, it is important that we first ensure fire safety in our homes. While it's not necessary that fires only happen during the winters, even a BBQ in the warmer months can cause an outbreak. Therefore, you must be prepared for such incidents if they may arise.

Every year, people lose their lives as a consequence of house fire incidents. However, if you plan fire safety measures correctly and safeguard your house, you can prevent a deadly fire from breaking out at your home.

Check this fire safety instruction guide that will help you be on your marks if things go south.

1. Keep multi-use fire extinguishers at important places of your house:
Place fire extinguishers near the areas of your home which have a high probability of catching fire, such as the kitchen, utility area, prayer room, and laundry area. Purchase only the ISI-certified product. Make sure you're familiar with the operating of the extinguisher.

2. Install and maintain smoke detectors at your residence:
Install smoke alarms/detectors in each room. Preferably, use a hard-connected system so that the signal is audible throughout all the rooms. Consider a professionally installed fire alarm system for an even higher level of security. If you use battery-powered smoke alarms, make sure to check the batteries regularly and replace them every six months.

3. Install a fire sprinkler system all over the property:
Installing a fire sprinkler system provides additional fire safety benefits. For big houses, sprinkler systems are often effective when they are operating on automated suppression. Fire sprinklers can safeguard and save all of the property's inhabitants as well as the property itself. They have in built sensors that detect smoke and fire that trigger the water sprinkling process to control fire outbreaks.

4. DO NOT overload switches:
When you overload your power outlets, you significantly increase the chance of an electrical fire in your house. For example, connecting an electric heater to a multi-board or multiplug is dangerous. These heaters consume a lot of energy and, in many situations, can overload the electric circuit, creating an undetected meltdown inside the wire. When left unattended, this can rapidly turn into an ablaze.

5. Look after your practices:
Cooking? Don't leave the gas unattended at any time. People who smoke in the house should be cautious; make sure the burning cherry on your cigarette does not touch anything. Prayer rooms should have proper ventilation, and the ‘diyas’ and incense sticks should have a dedicated place away from anything combustible.

Pro-tip: Have an escape plan ready for the residence. Gather all the family members and share the fire exit plan and an escape route. Examine all available exits and evacuation routes in your home and your apartment. Practice that drill every once in a while to get used to it.

With the winters just around the corner, this is the time when you use room heaters most to keep your home warm. But you might know that room heating is the most common cause of fires. Therefore, it is essential to protect your property from any blaze with all precautions in place. Get in touch with a reliable fire insurance company that will be your guiding hand in unfortunate times. A Fire insurance company will compensate for your loss against unforeseen events like lightning strikes, explosions, or unintentional fire due to short-circuits.

Click HERE to know more about fire insurance plans for your home.

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.

Flying thousands of feet up in the air for the first time is always one of the best experiences in life. Picking a window seat for stunning views, excellent food, comfort, and convenience are a few things you can associate with air travel. When you are boarding a plane for the first time, you have different emotions; your eyes sparkle with anticipation, your heart races with delight, but there is a lot of confusion that daunts you. Few of us wait impatiently for our first ever flight journey, whereas others are a bit worried, and it is natural.

So, to prepare you for this incredible experience, we have put together a guide that will make your first-ever flight journey more exciting and less daunting.

1. Turbulence is normal:
Even regular flyers are still afraid of turbulence, but it is nothing to be scared of. Engineers design the planes to undergo much more shaking than you could have imagined.

2. Arrive early:
Usually, people adhere to the reporting times given by the airlines. Still, being early for your first flight makes you a little more relaxed to adjust to the atmosphere at the airport. The spare time lets you complete the baggage check-in, collect boarding cards, security formalities and cross the immigration counter with ease.

3. Know about the airline's luggage policy:
How much luggage would you be allowed? How much should they weigh? What all things are you restricted to travel with? What if your luggage is misplaced? Acquaint yourself with all these important guidelines to avoid chaos.

4. Not all noises indicate dysfunctional aircraft parts:
Commercial planes are super complex machines. And it is pretty normal for devices to be noisy. For example, when retracted or deployed, the landing gear sounds like a thud that usually startles people. But, even the engine will be relatively quieter once the aircraft is in the air at a certain altitude.

5. Prepare yourself for motion sickness:
The likelihood of having it in mid-air is less because you do not experience twists or turns as you do in a car or a bus. But, some people have aerophobia that makes them feel sick and anxious mid-air. There are air sickness bags in each seat, and you can bring pills for yourself.

6. Choose your seat according to your liking:
Window seats let you peep outside with a few of the most sensational sights; on the other hand, aisle seats give you the option to take a walk more frequently during the journey. Consider your choices if you get the liberty to select your seat.

7. Carry these useful items:
Bring good noise-cancelling headphones, eye masks or neck pillow with you if you wish to have a few good hours of pleasant sleep. Use onboard entertainment music to engage you throughout your flight and make you rejoice in the journey with the melody of beats.

8. Comfortable dressing:
Aircraft's economy class seats are not the most luxurious ones out there. So, for a comfortable journey, choose breathable and stretchable clothes and footwear; think about the weather too.

9. Keep your cabin baggage light:
Wisely choose what you will pack in your cabin baggage. Remember to put the liquids, medicines, wallet, and electronics on top as, during checking, you might have to remove them for inspection.

The first trip can be a nervous one, but if you're confident and enthusiastic, you'll never say 'no' to flight journeys. Everyone has had an enjoyable first flight experience that becomes a story that they often recollect.

Also, as you pack your bags, it is essential to ensure some security in terms of insurance before boarding a flight. We recommend having general insurance plans as these will prove to be helpful all the time. General insurance plans include protection for your travel and will be beneficial to cover passport loss, any loss of baggage, or medical emergencies. So, keep the worries aside, and get ready to check in for your first flight experience!

Are you travelling internationally for the first time? Click HERE to know about the essential travel 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.

Whether you own a two-wheeler or a car, you should always ensure that you know everything about its maintenance and insurance. Getting insurance for your vehicle is of utmost importance. It protects your vehicle from severe damages by giving you compensation and solves third-party disputes.

However, just getting insurance for your vehicle is not enough. You also need to check out the various additional services offered by the insurance. This way, you can choose the most comprehensive insurance for your 2 wheeler. You must also inquire about all the essential terms relevant to your insurance. One such term is a constructive total loss. Although the term sounds complicated, it is not.

This article will help you to understand various aspects of a constructive total loss.

What is a constructive total loss?

You will likely file a claim for your 2 wheeler insurance only when your vehicle has suffered severe damages. Once you have filed a claim, the insurance company will inspect all the damages and reimburse the amount accordingly. Either you will get cashless compensation or money for the repairs. The damage is assessed well, and only compensation for the damages is provided.

If the vehicle is in dire need of minor repairs or servicing, the insurance company will reimburse that. It can also refund the amount for the replacement of bike parts. However, reimbursement only occurs after all the deductibles are assessed carefully. No matter the damage's severity, you will only get compensation up to the Insured Declared Value or IDV. You will not get any claim money that exceeds the IDV value.

There is also a major catch here. For instance, your two-wheeler undergoes irreversible damage. In such a case, the bike will be beyond repair. The insurance company can then declare it as a total loss. In other words, if the repair cost for the vehicle far exceeds its value, it results in total loss.

It is said that when the repair cost is more than 75% of the IDV, it is impossible to reimburse it. The constructive total loss takes place here.

Let's assume that your two-wheeler gets stolen. Then what will happen? In such a case, your insurance company will reimburse you for the IDV of your vehicle. The claim for theft of your bike will be treated as a total loss claim. The reimbursement amount will be sans the deductibles and depreciation.

How do you apply for a constructive total loss claim?

Now that you are familiar with constructive total loss let's look at the various steps to file a claim. They are:

● Go to the official website of your insurance company

● Look for the claims process tab or page

● You will see blanks to fill in your information

● Provide all the necessary information carefully

● After that is done, verify the self-inspection of your bike through the link sent to your mobile number

● A surveyor or inspector may be sent to get your vehicle inspected. Cooperate with them

● Once everything is done, you can submit all the required documents and forms

These easy steps can get you a total claim from the comfort of your home. You need to keep all these things in mind before you file a claim for your 2 wheeler insurance under constructive total loss. Once you give the correct information and abide by the guidelines, you can access the claim amount.

Click HERE to buy 2 wheeler insurance to protect your motorcycle from unexpected damages.

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.

There really isn’t the right time to go on a trip. Sure, you might need to take fewer leaves from work or school if it’s sometime in June or December when everyone is on vacation. But a vacation is a vacation. And it’s an exciting time; you are busy making plans about all that you’d do once you get there, all that you need to buy before leaving, packing up your suitcase and other such things. But that isn’t all. You shouldn’t get so absorbed in making all the plans that you forget to be thoroughly prepared for the trip. For instance, to safeguard your car when you are on your vacay, you should get it insured from the best car insurance company in India. There are some tips you should always keep in mind when travelling, no matter where. Some of them are as follows:

• Keep your belongings in a secure place: When you are travelling, there are chances of being pick-pocketed. Try keeping your wallet and identity proof in an inside pocket if possible or keep your bag towards the front side if they are kept in there. When staying in a hotel or hostel, do not keep your belongings scattered around and keep your luggage locked at all times. If you are travelling abroad, keep your passport and other documents in a locker if available.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Make sure to research well about where you’d be staying. Do not forget to find out details about the area where you’d be lodging. If you don’t, you might end up staying in an unsafe or dangerous neighbourhood. In case you do end up in such an area, try not to go out after dark, especially alone.
• Keep people informed: Whether you are travelling alone or with friends or family, it is always a really good idea to let people know where you are and what you generally intend to do that day. This way, in case something were to happen, or you aren’t able to contact anyone during an emergency, they would know where you are and can perhaps get to you or could inform the authorities if need be.
• Be careful when using public Wi-Fi: It is great to have Wi-Fi around you, so you don’t need to use up your mobile data but be careful when connecting to it. If you end up connecting to a network that isn’t secure, you could fall prey to hackers who might steal important information from your phone such as bank details or might even obtain your house address etc. It is key that you practise caution when using an unknown network since you could become a victim of cyber-crime.
• Beware of strangers: There is absolutely nothing wrong with making friends when out on vacation. In fact, it is great to make friends in different places. However, you mustn’t trust just anybody you meet. You can never really know - someone’s intentions so you must avoid giving out personal information or going just about anywhere with people you have just met.

Trips are a great way to destress and just have a good time, but it is necessary to be careful when travelling. You must take good care of your things, including your vehicles. For instance, if you plan a road trip with your friends, do not forget to choose the best car insurance company in India, so you are protected in case of a problem.

There's no room for an apple to fall, especially in Indian cities. Cities are buzzing with a huge population of students and working professionals. We often see our family and friends move out of their hometowns to turn over a new leaf. Some flee to pursue their dreams, and some to live independently.

This appears like a window of opportunity for the apartment owners to give their flats as paying guest accommodation. This way, they can earn well and gain the confidence to drive a small business. Being a highly rewarding sector, some individuals have already started to build their brands on PG accommodations. Their presence gives us a clear hint about the opportunities and profitability of this sector.

All in all, it's a booming industry. This fear of missing out in the market makes people convert their apartments to paying guest accommodations. But isn't it essential to know the risks and rewards before deep diving into this sector? Don't worry. We have got you covered.

Risks:

1. Legalities:
Converting your residence into a PG accommodation states that you are renting it for commercial purposes. Commercial properties require compliance with certain formalities and permission from municipal authorities, police, fire department, etc.

2. Security:
To prioritise the tenants' safety, ensure the installation of CCTV cameras and appoint a guard for additional security, and maintain the records of visitors.

3. Background check:
It is crucial to know your paying guests before closing the deal. So, verify their official documents, such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, or authorised identity card, and keep additional photocopies of these with you for records and future reference.

4. Agreement:
The rent agreement serves as an official document of mutual understanding between the occupant and the landlord. You need to mention all the terms in the contract. Once the contract is signed, you can move to the next step of closing the deal.

5. Damage to property:
The tenant should be responsible for maintaining the original condition of the PG except for everyday wear and tear. In case of any damage, it should immediately be brought to the landlord's notice.
As a landlord, you can insure your apartment with home insurance which would safeguard your property in case of any burglary, fire, or natural calamity.

Rewards:

1. Greater monetary benefits:
PG business can be a money-spinner for you. On average, a PG accommodates 5-6 individuals. So, a PG can earn you up to 10x of what you could make by renting out the apartment. Paying guest accommodations in metropolitan cities can earn you between 6,000 to 50,000; for other cities, it can range from 3000 to 20,000 per head per month. This can be an excellent source of side income that can be a significant financial benefit, especially for the middle class.

2. Passive income source:
PG can be a great passive income source for you while you can continue your own job/business. Converting your apartment into paying guest accommodation would be an excellent decision. However, complete all the necessary procedures and legal issues before converting it to a PG.
Don't forget to undertake the safety of your apartment by investing in home insurance, which would protect your belongings and your apartment from damages that mostly occur due to natural disasters and/or manmade misadventures.

If you have a good living space that is not occupied, then PG renting is a good decision you can make to get monetary benefits from your asset. But it is important to be clear on the terms before dealing with tenants. Never trap yourself in a problematic situation by making rash decisions.

Do your best research and background check of the desired tenant and stay updated on your home insurance renewal. Follow these basic yet vital steps, and you are all set to rent your apartment.

Click HERE to buy the best home insurance policy for your PG accommodation.

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.

Insurance plays an essential role in a person's life and safeguarding hard-earned assets, whether a home, car or business. It is a backup plan to minimise the loss and have efficient damage control when things go wrong. Although most people know the benefits of buying insurance, they often make mistakes due to insufficient knowledge in this field and a lack of in-depth research. Several false pieces of information circulate and get viral on the internet, confusing the buyers, which results in wrong decisions.

In the article, we'll learn about home insurance and people's general queries regarding making the right purchase. Like other insurance products, home insurance pays you for the construction costs and covers the damage due to any unfortunate event.

However, there are numerous things that you need to learn before buying insurance for your home. Before starting your personal research or contacting your desired general insurance company, pen down all your points and doubts. Never take haste steps, and keep control of the entire process in your hands.

Consider these five most frequent questions that ensure you choose the right home insurance.

1. What factors determine the premium on a home insurance policy?
Generally, factors such as location, features, and characteristics of your house determine the insurance policy's premium. Installation of safety and surveillance devices, claims history, and lifestyle habits also affect the policy's premium.
The closer your house is to an area that experiences frequent natural calamities or robberies, the higher it costs to insure it. You can lower your premium if you have good credit history and haven't made any claims. You can also ask your insurance agent how they determine your home's premium to ensure you pay the right premium.

2. What are the replacement costs and the market value of your home?
An insurance company is only interested in your home's replacement cost. You should ask your insurance company about the replacement cost of your home. It is the cost of constructing your house with the equal or similar utility if it was damaged in any unfortunate event. In contrast, your home's market value is your house's price in the real estate market.

3. What does cancelling a home insurance policy mean?
Cancelling an insurance policy means the company no longer covers the insured house. Policyholders and companies can cancel an active policy. Ask your insurance agent when their company can cancel your active policy. Carefully understand all the clauses and possibilities that may void your home insurance.

4. Are there any limitations in a home insurance policy?
Most home insurance policies don't cover losses due to the earthquake or war. Check the list of exclusions on your insurance policy before you get it. However, some policies have specific limits for items, including securities, jewellery, money, and silverware.

5. Does the home insurance policy cover water damage?
Most policies don't provide coverage for water damage. If your general insurance company doesn't offer water damage coverage, you can ask for other policies or add-ons that cover water damage to add more protection to your house. It would be best to look for water damage coverage in the policy, including damage from the spring thaw, snowmelt, burst mains, overflowing rivers, and heavy rains.

Make a list of these five crucial questions before considering any home insurance plan. These questions help you select the best general insurance company. You can also add more questions to your list. Don't forget to ask for a discount when buying multiple insurance plans together. Buy smart and buy the best!

Click HERE to buy home insurance from a general insurance company that suits your requirements.

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.

In the unfortunate event that someone breaks into your establishment and steals your belongings, the experience can be devastating on a psychological and economic level. Forcible intrusion into a residence or commercial establishment to commit theft is the definition of burglary. If someone tries to break into your home or place, you may be able to recoup some of your losses with burglary insurance.

Why do you need Burglary Insurance?

Under the Home Burglary Insurance policy, you also have the option to purchase additional coverage for high-value items such as diamonds, jewellery, and other valuables.

If a criminal were to break into your place of business and steal valuable items like computers, printers, and other office equipment, you would be protected by burglary insurance. These policies are designed to reimburse you for the loss due to the actions of evil minds. It provides the best possible financial assistance and helps you adjust to such circumstances to recover from the damages.

If thefts from homes and businesses are common in your neighbourhood, you should consider purchasing insurance against theft and burglary.

Essential points to identify needs for burglary insurance.

The primary motivation for purchasing theft protection is to prevent significant financial loss so that your home or business can be secured against the possibility of a break-in.

Crimes like burglaries, thefts, and other similar occurrences frequently make the front pages of newspapers. In today's world, it's irresponsible to abandon your house alone for too long. For this reason, having burglary insurance may be a great relief and a source of pride.

Let's take a look at the scenario when you must protect the homes with a burglary insurance:

● If you must keep the residence unattended for a long time, and there's nobody to look after.

● For those who must depart their homes or businesses for extended periods.

● Anyone running a business with a steady stream of customers coming in and out of the building daily.

● Corporation owners who attend to numerous clients each day.

Following are the types of burglary insurance available under the general insurance India category.

1. Full value insurance:
This type of insurance gives complete coverage to the property.

2. First loss insurance:
Under this plan, a certain percentage of the property gets insured rather than total protection. The policyholder must opt for this when there is less probability of total loss.

3. Stock declaration insurance:
Under this plan, the policyholder must estimate the highest stock value during a financial year. And the said amount will be the sum assured. In the case of stock fluctuations, this plan is beneficial.

Burglary and theft insurance are not the same. Illegal possession of assets, intending to infiltrate closed establishments forcibly (armed robbery), and theft by violence/ persuasive/ vicious entry are covered under burglary insurance.

On the other hand, theft insurance includes comprehensive coverage of stealing activities. Most types of insurance, including those for automobiles, homes, and even health insurance, provide coverage against burglary, which widely falls under general insurance India. Crime insurance endorsements can also be added to your policy to increase your protection against theft and burglary. Get acquainted with all the necessary information about a burglary insurance policy for your home or workplace safety. The criminal act of a few minutes can adversely affect your hard-earned happiness. Don’t let this happen, and buy reliable burglary insurance today!

Click HERE to know more about general 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’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.

Are you someone who loves visiting new places? Many of us love to treasure those memories we create on our vacation. As much as it feels tempting to capture moments, we can't brush off the mess of problems that come with travelling. From exploring the best sightseeing to learning more about the history and culture of a place, it can be daunting for travellers, especially firsttime visitors.

This can impact the fun of travelling as you might miss out on the best experiences on your trip due to incomplete knowledge about that place. And this is where the local guide comes into the frame, as no one other than them knows best about the local excursions of a destination.

First things first, local savvy guides are those who give homely experience even in unfamiliar places. Let's see how hiring a local guide when travelling to new places can make your trip memorable.

1. Hassle-free:
It can be challenging at times to explore the streets while visiting places. You don't know what to speak and often get lost in the big crowds. Private local guides make it hasslefree, giving you tidbits of inside information. In this nuanced world, they help you with dinner reservations, vehicles, hotel bookings, etc. No one can beat them when it comes to their places. So, no language barriers anymore!

2. Personalised tours:
Local tour guides know the places like the back of their hand. So, keeping your best interests in mind, they curate some of the top itineraries for you to take part. You would have missed many of these off-the-beaten-path spots otherwise. Even if you miss a booking, your tour guide is your lifeline. They can manage last-minute bookings and make your journey convenient.

3. Time and cost efficient:
You can vouch that despite the internet, we are not informed about a plethora of destinations. We are unaware of proper timings, directions, etc. With local contacts and tricks under their sleeves, local guides can make you skip the lines, book restaurants, give in-depth knowledge of places, and much more than you think. This reduces costs and time since you don't have to go for intermediaries for every trivial aspect.

4. Educate and engage:
Local tour guides are not just local people taking you through the city. They are highly educated, specifically in the areas of architecture, cuisine, history, and art. They are trained in many areas, from entertaining kids to catering to adults throughout the tours. They make travel more exciting and enjoyable. Their expertise makes complex destinations easy to navigate through. A tour guide is a must when you go sightseeing as everything seems different from their perspective.

*Important note:
When you visit a new country, you risk getting lost or, worse, might run into accidents. Safety should be at the forefront at all times. So, it is always recommended to purchase the best general insurance India. A general insurance policy covers the unanticipated costs and ensures your travel safety. These costs include misplaced checked-in baggage, lost connecting flights, missed passports, etc.

At the bare bones of it, travel guides are beneficial, especially in a crowd full of unfamiliar faces. So, no more hustle to find the best travel places, food destinations, etc. Your travel guide will make your journey exciting by adding traditions and historical information brimming in the amazing destinations.

Next time you visit any new destination, ensure to hire a local guide to savour the best local experiences that are sublime and enticing. Vacations are one of the best stress busters. Make the best use of resources to make your holiday unforgettable.

Click HERE to buy general insurance India before 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.

A home-based business is crucial when we do not have a formal business setup but have a strong business idea and are motivated enough to go for it. We should not fear starting such a business. Who knows, going down the years, our idea blooms into a big business and takes us up through the success lane.

However, we need to be passionate about our ideas and ensure our commitment to them. Always be open to failures and struggles, and be determined to race your way through all the hardships, and success will be yours!

Are you motivated to get started with your home-based business? Here's a step-by-step guide to help you design the roadmap of your business most effectively.

1. Talent assessment:
Assessing our strengths and talents is one of the key things we need to do at the start. Brainstorm what talents you have that you can implement in your business. Improvise the idea according to your skills, prepare a chart mentioning your weaknesses and areas that require improvements. Start working on them so that they do not act as a hindrance in your business venture.

2. Assess product/service feasibility:
The next step is to assess whether the product or service you want to sell has substantial market potential or not. An idea without good market potential can lead to failure and investment loss. Identify your target customers and markets. You need to assess whether your business idea can be executed successfully from your home or not. For example, you cannot start a manufacturing unit at home. You need to figure out these things before planning to bring your business into the market.

3. Pricing and cost assessment:
Once you have a clear product or service that you want to offer in mind, assess how much it will cost you to make or acquire it. This is especially important in case we plan to sell a product. Find out the cheapest available source for that product. Once you have the cost idea, survey the pricing at which the product sells in the market. Don't miss out on counting the overhead costs as well, such as electricity bills, maintenance, repairs, breakages, and the cost of manpower if you need to hire. Add them to the product's cost price to arrive at a fair selling price. The pricing should be lower than other similar products in the market. Your product and brand are new, and you must penetrate the market with competitive pricing. Do a similar exercise in case you plan to offer a service. Remember, correct pricing can make or break your business.

4. Finances:
Figure out your sources of finance for your business idea. If you have sufficient funds to start with, there is nothing better than it. In case you are looking for a loan from a bank or a financial institution, draw up a project report which you can present to the bank for financing. Always plan for working capital and emergency funds well in advance. A business idea will fail if it is not backed by proper financing.

5. Implementation:
Once you have the above points in place, implement your plan. Be serious about your implementation process from the very first day. Mark and maintain a separate work area for yourself at home. Create a positive work environment using the appropriate setup, furniture, lighting, and equipment. Make sure that you keep your costs low initially; else, you will run out of cash soon. Maintain a strict work schedule; otherwise, your daily household work will take over, and you will deviate from your implementation plan.

6. Build a team and give wings to your dreams:
It is time to build a team of like-minded people who can take your business to new heights. Hire or partner with talent, explore and target newer markets and customers, and expand.

Your home is the basis for the implementation of your new business idea. Keep it safe and secure by choosing the best home insurance policy. Get a general insurance online quote and look for the home insurance plan that best suits your requirements and budget. Any damage to your house can shatter your home-based business idea. Don't let that happen, and get your home insured today.

Click HERE to buy or renew your home 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.

Who doesn’t love a private swimming pool? People of all ages have the time of their lives in the pool. You can go swimming, have floating meals, spend quality time with your loved ones, organise pool parties, and so much more. Building a swimming pool on your own house’s premises is an alluring deal. But as amazing as it sounds, there are multiple things you need to consider before you start constructing your pool.

What factors need to be considered before and during the pool construction process? Are there different types of pools? If so, which would be the best fit for your house? This blog will discuss all the answers to the above questions and much more.

1. Be thoroughly educated about the local laws and regulations:
You need to make sure that you are aware of the local municipal corporation laws and the rules of such types of construction, as many cities and states have different sets of rules that you need to comply with. You need to check in with the authorities and the designated officials to ensure that you do not violate the terms and end up in trouble for the same.

2. Determine the reason for the construction of the pool:
You need to make sure that you are clear about the reason behind building the swimming pool. Is it for exercise or pleasure? Which set of people would use the pool more- children or adults? Suppose it is children that you are focusing on while constructing the pool. In that case, you have to ensure that the depth is not more than 1.5 ft, and if it is for adults, then not more than 4 ft (the guidelines regarding these measurements might vary), according to the safety purposes.

3. Types of pools and which one do you want:
Fibreglass, vinyl-lined, and concrete are the three significant categories of in-ground swimming pools can be classified into. Fibreglass pools have fewer varieties in shapes and sizes, which can be difficult in case you want to construct a pool in your backyard or some area within your premises that would require multiple customisations. In cooler regions, fibreglass and vinyl-lined pools are preferred over concrete pools due to their flexibility.

4. What would be the ideal location for a pool:
It would be best to consider multiple factors before finalising where to construct the pool. These include more sun exposure and fewer trees to avoid getting leaves into the pool and eliminate contamination risks. Otherwise, you will have to spend the entire day cleaning and filling up the pool due to dirt and debris in case of heavy rains or winds. Steer clear of any electrical pipeline, wires, sewers, etc., above or underneath the pool to avoid any risks of shocks. Lastly, the pool must be in the visible range within your premises so you can quickly check on the people in the pool or if there are any other potentially dangerous factors.

Other factors that you need to take care of are filtration techniques that would suit your pool and fit your budget optimally, pool sanitisers, the budget, and the type of workers you might need for the process safety gears and protocols, etc.

Know how you can build a swimming pool in your house? Well, now you do. Beautifying your house and upgrading it by installing various entertainment sources helps you create the home you have always dreamt of. It is a massive part of building memories. But apart from the entire up-gradation and decoration process, you must ensure that your sweet abode stays secure against any damages. Apart from investing in pool construction, it would be best if you also considered buying home insurance. Buy best home insurance online India to make the purchase hassle-free. You can get instant solutions for all your queries and good customer satisfaction while making claims or paying premiums through the online portal.

Click HERE to learn more about how you can buy home insurance online 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.

Sustainable living has different definitions for different people. It ensures that your lifestyle incorporates the three R's-reduce, reuse, and recycle, which eventually helps build a better environment, help with climate change, and develop a culture of harmony and mindfulness while going about your daily schedule.

There are several aspects to sustainable living, which include better alternatives to the material of everyday objects, energy efficiency, promoting the greens, veganism, saving resources, proper garbage disposal, repurposing ideas, opting for eco-friendly methods, conserving rainwater, and many more.

But how can one opt for sustainable living at home? Is it expensive? How can you make your switch towards sustainability? This blog will help you explore everything about sustainable living at home.

1. Replace your light bulbs:
Check the light bulbs around your house. You might be using the traditional bulbs, which consume higher energy to provide a low output level. Switching to low-energy-consuming light bulbs helps you in saving five times the energy consumed by regular bulbs for a high source of brightness.
They last longer, thus allowing you to reduce the costs of constant changes and replacements and help you save big bucks! All in all, you get a much better deal with these Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs).

2. Turn off those lights:
Often, our family members (not to exclude ourselves) do not have the habit of switching off the light, fans, and other electrical appliances when leaving the room. This is something that we need to be mindful of. There may be a lack of understanding of the gravity of wastage of resources when you leave all the lights on.
Still, it takes considerable non-renewable resources to generate the power to keep those electrical appliances running. Sustainable living promotes energy conservation at the top of its list. And along with the earthy resources, you also save a lot of money when you switch off those lights when not in use!

3. Get that vitamin D:
Our lifestyles have started revolving around our corners of the house where we seldom take an opportunity to go out in the sun. But as much as our body needs that vitamin D, sunlight is one of the best light sources, which can liven up your premises. You can rearrange the furniture set up of your house to enhance the impact of sunlight passing through your doors and windows.

4. Be mindful of the garbage disposal:
We might not grasp the weightage of segregated garbage disposal, but it is essential to dispose of the waste of your house categorically biodegradable and non-biodegradable. These can be turned into compost and manure for the healthy growth of vegetation or recycled as per the best waste management process.

5. Cannot miss the solar energy:
You need to install solar panels and water heaters in your house to take complete advantage of the heat and light coming from the sun. This will help you replenish the energy and consume it mindfully. This way, you can contribute to conserving the non-renewable resources we use today for power generation. You will also see a significant drop in your electricity bills.

Some other tips for sustainable living include finding better alternatives to paper towels, avoiding the usage of artificial fragrances, using eco-friendly cleaning detergents, using efficient brushes for washing your dishes so that you can efficiently clean them without wasting water, etc.

Upgrading your lifestyle for the better and in more mindful ways can be a difficult start but will be worthwhile in the end. Your home can get the switch it needs. And while you transform your way of living, it is equally essential that you protect your abode, which treasures all your memories and provides you with the warmth and comfort you need. To accomplish this, you must purchase home insurance from the best home insurance company in India to avail all the benefits in case of unforeseeable circumstances.

Click HERE to know more about the benefits of buying insurance from the best home 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.

The terms and conditions of insurance policies might get a little confusing for an average person to understand. The technical language of the information presented can take some time to get acquainted with, which is why the insurance companies send their officials or agents to help you navigate the entire process and have digital services and chat assistants available for help 24*7. While the customers have an idea about what the home insurance usually provides coverage for and their intent of purchase, there are certain things they might be unaware of.

Do you have a complete idea of the type of coverage home insurance provides? What are some of the strangest things you might be able to secure under the insurance? If you have these questions, don’t worry. Following are a few weird things that your home insurance covers. Let’s discuss.

1. If a plane crashes:
Difficult to believe, right? The rarest of the rare cases is if a plane crashes into your house. But yes, your home insurance does cover the damages that might be caused due to a plane crashing into your house. Any objects falling from the sky which can potentially cause severe damage to your home are covered under your home insurance. Although, you need to make sure that you cross-check these details with your insurance provider.

2. Destructive riots:
Riots can take a destructive route when they rise to a huge scale. In such cases, sometimes the parties involved in the riots and those trying to control the outrage get into a defensive mode and cause mass destruction of properties. If there are any damages to your house during the riots, your home insurance provides coverage for that.

3. What if your pet bites someone:
Your home insurance might cover the cost of the treatment in case your pet bites someone within the perimeters of your house. Despite this, you might have to stay prepared if the person who got bit sues you, but you can stay assured of the coverage of those hospital bills.

4. Wild animals are also on this list:
This is for residents who usually have wild animals roaming around. Although humans and animals have become accustomed to their way around each other, you never know when the wild beings get agitated and, therefore, can trigger the possibility of a stampede.
In such situations, if there is any damage due to the stampede, your home insurance also provides coverage. But ensure to check the details carefully as some animals might be left out of this benefit (for example, rodents, possums, etc.).

5. Be careful about the parties you throw:
Some home insurances might cover the cost of damages caused during the parties organised in your house. Your insurance might cover these damages, but you might end up in trouble if someone gets injured. Check-in with your home insurance provider to ensure that the damages incurred during parties are covered under your policy.

Some other weird things covered under your home insurance include theft of cover identification, damage due to meteors, etc. And in the interest of protecting your home and your family against damages incurred due to unfortunate circumstances, you must get the best home insurance policy in India. Your home is not just a space where you live; it carries an important place in your life.

It is a place you return to after a long day at work, comforts you during the sad times, houses the best memories, and provides your family a safe zone where they can stay and create their own lives. Therefore, you must get the best home insurance policy that caters to your needs in the best ways possible.

Click HERE to know more about the benefits of buying 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.

Every legitimate and eligible citizen of India is supposed to pay Income Tax regularly within the specified time limit as per the government regulations and norms. The taxable amount is based on an individual’s annual earnings. There are different tax and income slabs defined respectively by the Indian government. One must consider their earnings and calculate their taxes accordingly. These taxes are righteously used for the benefit and progress of the country.

But amidst all these details, were you aware that insurance, apart from protecting you and your assets against various risks, also is a substantial tax-saving benefit? This important question may give you a broader perspective on the insurance and tax-paying correlation. We have all the information you will need to understand the perks of insurance and how it can be a tax-saving choice. Let’s dive deeper into the facts!

Which policies help you fetch tax benefits?

Insurance options that will help you avail of full benefits along with tax-saving options include:
● Retirement plans and policies
● Health insurance policies
● ULIPs-Unit Linked Insurance Policies

All these insurance policies can be categorised under similar yet slightly different sections of the Income Tax Act regulated by the Government of India.

Understanding the tax deductions.

Various types of deductions can influence the tax benefits you can get on your health insurance. Let’s understand what 80C and 80D tax deductions are. Tax deduction can be claimed on your taxable income on premiums valuing around Rs. 1.5 lacs.

These premiums are supposed to be paid for insurance policies in your name, spouse’s name, or your children’s/child’s name/names. If you are someone who has paid their premiums, you can avail of 80C and 80D tax deductions annually.

The 80D deduction.

The 80D deduction dictates that if you have a health insurance policy in your name or the names of your spouse and children, the tax-deductible income can be Rs 25,000 on the insurance premiums.

According to section 80D, there are various other prospects for this deduction, but we will now consider this information to discuss the tax benefits further.

The 80C deduction.

According to section 80C of the Income Tax Act, the tax-deductible you can claim is worth Rs 1.5 lacs of insurance premiums. If you purchase a single premium policy, you can only claim the tax benefits under section 80C of the Income Tax Act.

Under section 80D, if you have a health insurance policy under your name along with a dependent with the minimum age of 60, you can claim a tax deductible on the dependent’s health insurance.

Protecting your financial assets against unprecedented situations and getting compensation for your financial losses is essential. Times can be very unpredictable, and you might never know when you will need a lot of money. Exhausting your savings is not a wise option here. You need to think beyond and try to avoid burning a hole in your pocket.

While being mindful of your expenses and determining a budget is one of the top solutions here, insurance is another way you can stay secure about your assets. It is vital to purchase the right general insurance after exploring the market and determining the one that can cater to your needs in the best way possible.

Click HERE to know more about general 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.

Plastic bags have become a necessary evil in today's day and age. Everything from the packaging of everyday items to utensils, we have seen a massive increase in plastic usage across households. However, plastic has dire effects on the environment. Polluted rivers, channel blockage, pollution, and animal choking are some of plastic's environmental hazards.
Looking at the various damaging implications of plastic usage, activists and other environmentalists have raised their voices against the excess and single use of plastics.

In response, many governments have banned the manufacturing and usage of plastic. Even after the ban on single-use plastic, the complete absence of plastic is impractical. The ease and efficiency of plastic packaging are seldom matched by anything else. This makes plastic an almost irreplaceable part of our lives.

But if you are a responsible human being and want to make a small contribution to the environment, this article will help you reduce plastic waste in your home.

1. Use jute or cotton bags:
Plastic is one of the most convenient options when it comes to shopping. Opting for a plastic bag at the counter is more convenient than carrying cloth bags. By carrying your bags, you are not only saving the environment, but you are also avoiding the excess charge levied on plastic bags. Cloth bags or jute bags are better alternatives to plastic bags. They are reusable, washable, and durable. Consider carrying your carry bags for your next grocery run.

2. Avoid plastic utensils:
Want to carry a tiffin to your office or college? Are you reaching out for the fancy plastic containers? Then you need to reconsider your choice. Plastic utensils such as lunchboxes and water bottles release toxic chemicals into the food, and when consumed, these can cause serious health issues like cancer and heart problems. Storing food in plastic containers can have dire health effects on your body and affect the food's composition.
It is best to opt for steel tiffin to keep your food fresh for longer. People also use microwavable plastic dishes to reheat their food. This can be highly toxic. Switch out the plastic vessels for glass containers. Instead of storing the spices and pulses in plastic boxes, reuse the glass containers you already have. Various pickles, jams, and oils come stored in glass packaging. Remove the sticker and reuse it. This helps you save money and keep yourself and your family healthy.

3. Replace your bathroom essentials:
There are many options available in the market that are more eco-friendly. Opt for locally sourced soap and shampoo bars instead of purchasing a new bottle. Buy refill packs for handwashes and invest in ceramic soap dispensers instead of plastic bottles. Choose wooden toothbrushes and combs as these are eco-friendly and healthier options for your teeth and hair.

4. Change your grocery habits:
People find it more convenient to buy packaged food, be it fruits and vegetables or meat and other farm products. Most of these packaged foods are frozen and lose their nutritional value after some time. Instead, explore your nearest local markets and buy fruits and vegetables from local vendors. By doing this, you are helping the locals while reducing plastic use.

These are some ways in which you can ensure that your home reduces the use of plastic. Being mindful is a small step towards making the planet a better place for your children and the future generations to come.

The above measures can help your home get rid of plastic, but have you considered its safety? Safety is paramount, and when it comes to assets like home, then it is a necessity. To add more value to your homes, invest in home insurance India. Home insurance is a safety net against any expenses incurred due to damage, theft, and other accidents. In case of any mishap, you can be assured that your insurer can make up for your expenses and loss.

Click HERE to know more about 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.

As someone who owns a motorcycle, you will know the thrill of long road trips with friends or the calm of solitary rides at night. A bike can give you many new adventures, all of which you must experience in your lifetime. Owning a motorcycle is a matter of pride and honour. Still, it also brings many responsibilities like regular maintenance, proper servicing, and owning the best 2 wheeler insurance. However, this article will discuss another safety feature, i.e., headlights.

If you are looking to upgrade your headlights, or want to know the nitty-gritty of the kinds of headlights, then look no further. This article is here to help you understand all your motorcycle headlight-related needs.

Before looking at the types of headlights, let's understand why it is essential to have a fully functioning and a good-quality headlight on our motor vehicles.

1. Safety:

We have heard of accidents on the roads and highways at night. In most cases, the driver is incapable of navigating dark streets due to a lack of visibility. It is imperative to have a good headlight, to keep yourself and others safe on the road. Not only does it help you in seeing others, but it also allows others to notice you.

2. Driving through fog or rain:

Your vision is significantly compromised when you drive through dense fogs or heavy rains. A good quality headlight can pierce through rains and fog and help you with better visibility.

Now, let's understand the different types of headlights that are available in the market for you.

1. Halogen:

The most commonly available lighting in headlights is the halogen reflectors or filaments. These lights share the same characteristics as the yellow-hued filament bulb used in houses. These bulbs are cheaper and easily accessible by consumers; however, these lights are not as bright as the others available in the market.

2. Xenon bulbs:

These are produced majorly for projectors and other directional purposes of light. They give out a very sharp, bright light stream that can easily cut through the darkness and give better visibility of the road ahead. However, one con of these bulbs is that since they are intense beams of light, they tend to reflect from surfaces. So, while driving, you might not be able to see the directions and street signs, as these lights can reflect strongly into your eyes.

3. LEDs:

The light-emitting diode or the LED emits bright white light and is primarily found in newer models. They consume less energy and have high efficiency. They are also safe and durable and emit a bright stream of light that can easily cut through dense fogs and rains.

These are some of the significant kinds of bulbs used in your headlights. It is crucial to keep your bike and its parts working to ensure the safety of yourself and others. Besides the headlights, it is a good practice to take note of your vehicle's tail lights, turn signals, brake lights, and fog lights to ensure maximum safety.

Before upgrading to a newer headlight, it would be wise to check if the bike's battery can handle the extra load from a new headlight. If the batteries fail to handle the change, your bike can stop working. To bypass this issue, it is best to talk to a mechanic who will be able to guide you with the battery requirements for your headlights. An upgraded battery and a headlight system would keep your bike and the new headlight safe.

An efficient headlight is paramount to driving safely on the roads, specifically at night. Always ride with proper safety gear, carry the essential documents, and keep your 2 wheeler insurance up-to-date. Ride with responsibility and stay safe on the road!

Click HERE to buy 2 wheeler 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.

Driving is a task that entrusts the driver with the responsibility of passengers, pedestrians, and vehicles in their hands. This overwhelms most drivers, especially beginners learning how to drive.

In the beginning, when you take your grown-up child for driving lessons, you may find them nervous and frightened. This fear makes them attempt fundamental mistakes, like applying brakes while keeping their feet on the accelerator. You may get frustrated and scold your child for such silly mistakes. However, your actions can result in a loss of confidence and develop a greater fear of driving. Thus, it would be best if you become supportive of your child.

Making your child follow the traffic rules and scolding them to drive slowly will not make them great drivers. It would help if you built some qualities within yourself for your child to learn to drive. In addition to it, ensure that you buy new car insurance as a preventive measure.

Follow these tips to be a supportive instructor and a cheerleader by their side!

1. Make them drive
Your child wants freedom, primarily because they ask for a licence. You can make your child drive the vehicle during an outing at safer locations, especially in the daytime. Or you can make them your co-driver, so they get some experience. Moreover, encourage them to look at the mirrors and the incoming traffic and read the signs on the boards. It will enhance your child's understanding of driving.

2. Stay patient and calm
To teach your child to drive, you need to develop patience. Your child may get nervous while learning to drive, and shouting could worsen their practice. So, staying at ease and unstressed will make their learning experience enjoyable. Further, try to avoid conflict situations and take them to learn to drive when you are in a good mood. While you may get irritated with their learning practices, keep calm, and avoid disagreements.

3. Take the learner driver's insurance
Though you may have been driving for many years, ensure you abide by traffic rules before giving vehicles to your child. You are responsible for ensuring you have insurance covering your teenager's learning. Mistakes can happen at any time while your child is learning to drive. So, it is better to have insurance covering all mishappenings costs.

4. Become their mentor driver
Children often copy the driving habits of their parents. These include talking on the phone or drinking coffee while driving. Your children see you and will hold you accountable for such habits later in life. It will help if you become a role model for them in driving. They stay focused and try to avoid doing other things while driving. Therefore, developing such practices within you will be helpful for your kids.

5. Check that your child is prepared to learn
Even if your child has crossed the legal driving age, it doesn't mean they are ready to drive. Acknowledge your child's maturity and help them to handle pressure situations gradually. Also, assess the thinking and acting capacity to react to rough possibilities. Further, ensure your child is emotionally ready to take control of a vehicle at a certain speed. It will enhance your child's learning experience and show their willingness to learn.

Your child needs your maximum support when they learn anything. Driving is one of the most important activities your child should do calmly. Also, while teaching your child traffic rules and signs, ensure that you follow them correctly. Always buy new car insurance before your child starts learning to drive. It will ensure stress-free learning and make your child a great driver.

Click HERE to buy new car 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.

There are various covers that the insurance companies provide depending upon factors such as the location, the type of car, the engine model, the engine capacity, etc. These car insurance covers are provided for various situations such as natural calamities, theft, accident, etc. One such protection that always seems ambiguous is the insurance against vandalism. If you are contemplating whether to take a vandalism cover or not, this article might help you by giving you a better insight into destruction, the claim, the benefits, and the demerits of the same.

The first thing to understand is that vandalism covers can be costly. As the severity of vandalism cannot be estimated beforehand, and the likeliness cannot be predicted, the covers can charge extra.

You can claim vandalism only if you have a comprehensive cover. Now, what is a comprehensive cover? Let’s understand the two main kinds of covers provided by insurance companies.

1. A third-party plan:

This policy is a safety net for the policyholder against any liabilities that may arise due to an accident or collision resulting in an accident of a third person or damage to their property.
If in case of death of the third person, the insurance company covers the compensation for the same. The premium on these is lower compared to a comprehensive car insurance plan.

2. A comprehensive plan:

Not only does it include third-party coverage, but it also takes care of personal damage. Comprehensive car insurance protects against any legal obligations arising from third-party interference and covers any damage caused to your car.
This cover also has the added covers on natural and human disasters such as riots and vandalism. With these things in mind, you can rest assured that your car will be fully taken care of by the insurance company.

Let’s first understand what vandalism is:
Vandalism is an act of destruction performed intentionally and with the intent of malice. In this case, we are talking about vandalism against vehicles, which can have different forms.

1. Damage to the car body:

Spray paint, scratches, and graffiti are a few ways to damage the car’s body that can be considered vandalism. More noticeable scratches and damage will require a new paint job and other repairs.

2. Broken parts:

Broken windows, glass panels, or lights must be changed entirely, costing tens of thousands in damage.

3. Slashed tyres and stolen parts:

Parts of your car, such as the side-view mirror, company logo, tyres, wiper blades, etc., can cost significant money. People steal these and sell them for the original prices, which are relatively more expensive than the knock-off goods.

Vandalism claims can be time-consuming and challenging to process as there is rarely a proof. So, it is best to inform your insurers as soon as possible and start the process. But remember that vandalism claims are only valid if there were relevant covers in your policy.

As discussed above, car insurances pay for vandalism only if you have comprehensive coverage added to collision coverage. Comprehensive coverage does not include any stolen goods or personal items from within the car, but it can cover the expenses for the damages incurred.

Sometimes, a police intervention might be needed as vandalism is considered a crime. Filing a complaint with your insurer increases the chances of damage recovery through the claim. If a police officer does not visit the crime scene, then the chances are that they will call you to give a detailed report of the crime. Do not forget to miss out on any points, as the better the details of the crime; the better are your chances of claiming your insurance.

Now you know why investing in a comprehensive car insurance policy is best. You can get the best protection against calamities, human-induced hazards or otherwise.

Click HERE to find out more about comprehensive car 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.

When your headlights give you a difficult time by going off, the instant reaction is to contact a mechanic. And why would you not? A broken headlight makes it feel like you are driving with one eye closed, causing night drives riskier. Also, what if a vigilant police officer stops you on the road? That generally means heavy fines, especially if a few things are wonky in your car. Additionally, the car now looks way less sleek than before. However, going to the mechanic proves to be costly and time-taking, which makes you delay the job unless there is a looming fine.

A one-stop solution to all these problems is just fixing the headlight yourself. This surprisingly easy task takes a few minutes to accomplish. It could be a fun DIY project which you undertake this season! This blog gives you the basics of replacing your car headlights at home!

Tool list: You might need the following tools to fix the headlights, so keep them handy: Screwdriver set, socket set, pliers.

Safety first!
There's nothing more important than your safety. Wear gloves and goggles to protect yourself, as you might have to reach some tight spots. Additionally, you'll hold sensitive bulbs throughout the process, which warrants protection.

Caution!
As a precautionary method to ward off DIY enthusiasts, most car insurance companies do not allow significant self-modifications to the vehicle's interiors or exteriors. While checking new car insurance rates, read the policy fine print to check if it permits such changes.

Step-by-step process on how to replace your car's headlights:

1. Check your owner's manual
This is to get specific instructions on replacing your vehicle's headlights and what kind of bulbs you should get (HID or LED). The general instructions are similar, but you may need specific tweaks to suit your car.

2. Power the car down
Turn off your car, let it cool, and park it in a clean area on your driveway.

3. Access the bulbs
This may be a tricky step. Sometimes, you may need to remove the battery to access the bulbs better. Or, you can pop the hood and locate the headlight holder near the front of the car.

4. Detach the headlight connector and disconnect the bulb
The base of the lightbulb is connected by three wires. Disconnect the plug that supplies power to it. Once you open the headlight, changing the bulb is child's play. However, be careful while unlocking the locked bulb out of its place. Try not to break the clips used in locking the bulb, as those are not easily fixable.

5. Screw the new light bulb in
Wearing gloves, carefully screw the new bulb without touching the glass of the bulb, as it may burst. Close the hood of your car, and the job is done! If one headlight is off, it's almost certain the other will go off in a few weeks. So, when replacing one, take some time and replace the other one too.

Headlights going off is a common problem. While it is usually from old age, there can be other reasons, such as extreme heat or cold, which affects the bulb's filament, causing it to go off. It can also be due to oxidation, common in modern-day halogen bulbs. Unfortunately, you might have to replace the whole headlight, not just the bulbs. In this case, taking the vehicle to a mechanic is best, as meddling with it too much might do more harm than good. To make this more pocket friendly, research new car insurance rates that also undertake your car's repair and maintenance costs.

Click HERE to know more about new car insurance rates.

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.

The covid-19 pandemic put the whole world to a stop. Various global operations halted; people were panicking and clueless about the situation. And amidst all this, business suffered a huge loss until everything found a place, and there was some clarity which helped put a lot of functionalities back on track and slowly sped them up. To combat the widespread of the infection, organisations started offering their customers an option of "no contact deliveries" or "contactless services," which was a revolutionary step for the safety of their consumers.

Are you looking for information about any procedure that can be contactless and help you with your car insurance, for example, renewing it? It is essential to ensure that you update your car insurance policies on time to avoid extra penalties and avail of the full benefits without any hindrance.

In delayed renewals, it will be a tedious process to be able to claim and get the appropriate help and compensation from your designated insurance companies. So, it is vital to be mindful of your policies, your rights, the documents you might need, your premiums, and most importantly, the renewal dates of your insurance.

This blog will discuss the zero-contact process of buying and renewing car insurance.

1. What does the zero-contact process mean?

In the case of contactless insurance, you have a scope of purchasing the insurance without meeting any officials from the insurance company. The whole procedure involves digital methods for verification, details, and documentation through mobile apps, the website of the designated insurance organisation, video chat applications, etc.

2. What do you need to do as a consumer/potential customer?

You can compare and measure the benefits of various insurance policies from different companies, research the plans, the premiums, the coverage insurances provide, grace periods, renewals, add-on benefits, etc., before arriving at an informed decision and choosing the plan you want to purchase. And surprisingly, you can do all this from the comfort of your home, one of the significant advantages of contactless services. Thanks to technology!

3. How can you buy motor insurance online through the zero-contact process?

The online option will allow you to avail yourself of the zero-contact aspect of purchasing car insurance to protect your car against damages. You, as a customer, connect with the insurance personnel through virtual platforms. You may download the designated mobile application or go to the insurance company's website, choose the appropriate options, select the plan, upload the documents as per the instructions, and get them verified. For identity authorisation and verification, you might have to video chat with the official or to the developed chatbot, which will further provide instructions on how to proceed. You will have multiple options like UPI, net banking, cash, debit and credit cards, etc., to accomplish the payment process.

4. What are some benefits of contactless insurance?

You can avoid risks of covid-19 infections, online availability (24X7) in case of any queries and help, video calling options for a personalised touch, and zero commission services to avoid fraud or involvement of an untrustworthy third party. You also need to ensure the add-on benefits, get a customised insurance policy, set the desired Insured Declared Value (IDV), the zero-depreciation value, etc.

This was all about the zero-contact process to buy motor insurance online or renew an existing policy. We hope this information will help you understand the details of the zero contact procedure and why it is beneficial. You must keep the above-discussed pointers in mind and carefully consider them before choosing the policy. Also, avail the benefits and buy motor insurance online. This way, you not only ensure the safety of your car but also reduce the risk of infection by eliminating the physical visit to the insurance company or agent.

Click HERE to know more about how you can buy motor 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.

Ever wondered why you don't feel jolted every time you apply the brakes on your car or take a sharp turn to the side? It's all thanks to the car bushes.

Car Bushings are cushions made up of rubber, polyurethane, neoprene, or other materials. They're mainly mounted on car suspensions and steering joints. Their primary responsibility is to ensure no abrasions in the metal suspension framework due to the contact between them. They also give the driver maximum comfort by mitigating road bumps and controlling the degree of movement in the joints.

The car bushings are mostly made of rubber. Typically, rubber bushes are structured in the form of a cylinder between the two parts of metal. This rubber is usually vulcanised rubber.

Car bushes are essential for the smooth functioning of your car. This blog sheds some light on car bushes and their need in a vehicle.

Applications of bushes:

• Improves safety and comfort: Car bushings support the mechanism to make the ride comfortable for the passengers in the car. They are crucial in positioning and aligning various suspension and steering components.

• Reduces damage caused by vibration: Repeated vibrations can cause abrasions to your vehicle's suspension system, which contributes to its weakening. Car bushing minimises this wear and tear, thus increasing the car's life

• Making the ride less noisy: The rubber used in bushes can reduce vibrations and thus reduce the need for lubrication. This makes maintenance easier and simultaneously makes the vehicle less noisy.

• Bushing provides a stress-free and long life to the vehicle: Like cartilage in a human body, bushings protect the joints and connected parts of the car from shocks to the car. This increases the longevity of the car and the lesser probability of your car facing damages.

Advantages of using Rubber bushes:

● Rubber is the most widely used material in car bushes. As rubber is a readily available substance, it is inexpensive and readily absorbs most noises and vibrations transmitted by various objects.

● One of the main advantages of using rubber bushes as cushioning in vehicles is that it's never a bad fit for a vehicle. They are suitable for all types of vehicles and can be used as cushions for engines and gearboxes.

Disadvantages of using rubber bushes:

● Although very widely used, rubber bushes come with certain limitations. They tend to deteriorate when exposed to heat, air, and especially oils. Over long periods, this exposure can result in the rubber material cracking and wearing away.

An alternative to rubber bushings is ones made out of neoprene. It looks like rubber but is a synthetic substance derived from polymerising chloroprene. It is much more robust than rubber and is better suited to bushings. Neoprene can withstand high temperatures without physical damage.

While extremely simple in design, car bushings play a vital role in suspension systems where vibrations are problematic. They are significant and should be replaced timely to avoid abrasions in your car's system.

We discussed how car bushes can help you control your car's braking. Their applications can assist you in the smooth handling of your car and avoid the risks of accidents. However, the maintenance and upkeep of these integral parts can be daunting sometimes. The solution to this is to buy new car insurance. Ideal car insurance provides several benefits to avoid spending hefty amounts on car maintenance. The new way of budgeting while ensuring security can be possible by making the right investment.

Click HERE to know more about how to buy new 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.

Unfortunate events are a constant risk that one must always be prepared for. While you may have an optimistic view of the future, the financial implications of a mishap are always too heavy to burden. Online general insurance is a financial product that comes in the clutch in such uncertainties to protect policyholders after paying a comparatively meagre premium. With the demand for insurance growing daily, the insurance sector constantly evolves to provide better services, more values, stringent regulations, and preventive mechanisms to tackle fraud.

Initially sold as a safety mechanism, online general insurance policies are now seen as more than they offer at face value. They are seen as investments, tax-saving opportunities, and more. However, some policyholders try to take advantage of loopholes in the policy wording to derive the most significant benefit by defrauding insurance companies by resorting to means like improper disclosure of facts, misrepresentation, etc.

With the recent wave of digitisation, the insurance regulatory authorities are setting their foot down and laying the framework for a transparent and non-conducive ecosystem for insurance fraud.

The issue.
Over the years, the insurance sector has seen an extreme change, from witnessing the risk-averse masses to offering facilitative services like online general insurance that are convenient for consumers with the benefits of additional features.

However, over time, the scope of the policies is being misinterpreted, leading policyholders to purchase multiple covers to increase their net insured sum payout. This has been noticed especially in the case of online general insurance, where various policies from multiple insurers are purchased to enhance the total payout.

The primary concern in such a situation is that each asset has a fixed value determined by careful expert assessment and evaluation. After risk evaluation, the premium, coverage extent, etc., are decided. Policyholders purchase multiple policies to override this constraint on the payout and often do not disclose the same to the existing insurer.

Another reason that caused the lack of complete data availability with insurers is the intense and duplicate paperwork. Customers used to skip several essential fields due to redundant questions and excessive effort.

The solution.
During times of heavy dependency on paperwork, it was difficult for insurers to identify such cases until the point of raising a claim. However, with technological advancements and the onset of the digital era, the insurance sector is not left behind in upgrading its ecosystem to tackle such concerns.

The account aggregator system, which is now applicable for all non-banking financial companies, data sharing concerning customers' investments and savings is set to transform the information availability for insurance providers.

The account aggregator system will make all relevant data available to authorised bodies electronically. The use of e-insurance accounts (e-IA) will only facilitate the process. While the e-IA, a digital portfolio of insurance policies held by an individual, is for the policyholder's benefit, the aggregator system makes all the necessary data accessible in a few simple clicks to prevent over-insurance, fact-check disclosures, and reduce paperwork.

The concerns.
Anywhere that data sharing takes place is seen as a significant concern due to the constant risk of data leaks, especially when dealing with such confidential information. However, the RBI has already announced and laid the foundation for an institution to take care of data collection and protection to assure policyholders and protect their interests.

As we progress technologically, we will be in a better position to respond to the dynamic demand across various sectors, of which insurance is one. Policyholders must take extra caution while evaluating and purchasing online general insurance policies to ensure their safety and comply with the relevant regulations.

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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.