GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click HERE to know more about general insurance plans.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click HERE to get general insurance online quote

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click HERE to know more about motor insurance.

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

Nobody likes to anticipate any worst-case scenario, but we still prepare for them. However, people investing in home insurance in India are as low as 1%. This shows the lack of awareness about the importance of home insurance which makes Indians highly susceptible to financial and property losses that take years to recover. Every individual who wants to secure the future of their family and property must invest or buy home insurance.

Once you buy home insurance, you can recover from household losses more efficiently. However, purchasing a reliable insurance policy is not enough. It is crucial to abide by the strict regulations involved in your home insurance. Every individual must follow the entire list of dos and don'ts of the insurance policy.

To avail the benefits of your home insurance successfully, you must know some of the critical points that can nullify your home insurance.

1. Renting your home:
While you may think you have the complete liberty to rent out your home, this could jeopardise your insurance policy. Several home insurance companies reject the idea of insuring a shared house. Renting out your home or registering it as a homestay on hotel booking sites can become a risk as insurance companies look at it as sharing your property with someone you don't know well. They might consider this threatening enough to cancel your insurance plan altogether.

2. Exaggerating the value of your home:
If you exaggerate or overestimate the value of your home, it can lead to the cancellation of your home insurance plan. Insurers always cross-check the details given by the homeowner and verify them. To help this, you can show an inventory of all the things you own and their actual monetary and market value. It is good to save receipts of appliances, furnishings, etc., to provide evidence.

3. Practising illegal activities:
Illegal activities like the consumption or sale of narcotics can be grounds to cancel your home insurance policy. No company wants to deal with individuals going against the law. Insurance companies provide policies based on the homeowner's character. Practising illegal activities can be a solid red flag. They may nullify your home insurance policy on the grounds of suspicion. Filing fraudulent claims to gain funds from the insurance company is another illegal activity to steer clear of.

4. Long periods of absence:
If you plan to be absent from home for an extended period, you must check the insurance policy's requirements before you leave. Home insurance policies usually have terms for how frequently they need an adult individual to check on the house's conditions. You must request a trusted individual to check on the condition of your home as per the required intervals. This helps verify that the house is protected against any unknown damage, break-ins, or theft. Contact your insurance company before leaving for an extended period to avoid confusion.

Although most Indians are aware of the dangers of earthquakes, natural calamities and other security threats for their homes, they still do not buy home insurance. You may choose an insurance company to buy home insurance online India that provides you financial security with the additional benefit of covering your insured belongings.

So, check the above set conditions and other guidelines of your insurance contract to avoid your policy getting cancelled.

Click HERE to 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

Transportation and trading of commodities have never been more accessible than now. Taxis, tractors, cranes, transport trucks, and other motor vehicles have become standard trade methods in various industries. Often, these vehicles operate outside of the commercial space and are subject to many dangers on the road.

Business owners require commercial vehicle insurance coverage to handle these risks successfully. Owners can purchase insurance covering third-party and own-damage claims and get it renewed as and when needed.

Let's get a better understanding of commercial vehicle insurance in general.

What exactly is commercial vehicle insurance?
Commercial vehicle insurance policies protect owners whose vehicles are used for business purposes. There are a variety of vehicles covered under this policy, including delivery trucks, staff cars, food trucks, and more.
The motor insurance policy provides liability and accident coverage and helps you with the payment of damages and medical costs in case of accidents. It will also cover the towing costs if your vehicle breaks down in the middle of the road.
If you're looking for online motor insurance renewal for your commercial vehicle, you need to first ensure the types of vehicles covered by the policy. Additionally, you can cross-check various insurance companies for the best features and premiums. Online motor insurance renewal is beneficial, especially when you are in the midst of day-to-day business activities.

Types of vehicles covered by commercial insurance.

1. Vehicles that carry passengers:
It includes a variety of vehicles that typically carry passengers, such as cabs, rickshaws, school buses, and private buses. Passenger transport vehicles such as taxis and school buses bear a great deal of duty due to the high volume of passengers they transport regularly. Commercial vehicle insurance protects these vehicles from financial ruin in an accident and also protects the passengers they carry.

2. Vehicles for moving goods:
Goods-carrying vehicles are primarily used for transporting goods from one location to another. Because these vehicles are so enormous and loaded with goods, they pose a greater risk. Damages to a third-party car or one's own vehicle, as well as damage to commodities, are covered under commercial vehicle insurance. It all depends on the policy coverage; therefore, thoroughly read the terms of all the plans before making a final choice.

3. Miscellaneous & Special Vehicles:
Aside from trucks, taxis, buses, and cabs, numerous other vehicles are utilised for business or commercial purposes. Special vehicles for mining, farming, and construction, for example, could be among these vehicles. Insurance for commercial vehicles protects the vehicle from any damage or loss resulting from or caused to the vehicle.

Commercial vehicle insurance has many advantages:

• Commercial vehicle insurance can be deducted as a business cost from your income tax.

• Travel agencies, automobile rental services, and other businesses can buy this insurance plan in bulk. This simplifies the procedure while allowing for a cheaper premium rate.

• It covers any losses caused by unexpected events like theft, fire, vandalism, terrorist attacks, and natural calamities.

• It provides additional rewards in the event of a death resulting from an accident.

• No claim bonus is given during policy renewals if there has been no claim throughout the policy period.

• It provides coverage for the litigation and legal bills that have been filed against you.

Your company's financial stability depends on how efficiently your commercial vehicles work and facilitate the business. Businesses must opt for purchasing motor insurance to safeguard their vehicles from all potential risk factors. Online motor insurance renewal is the best option for companies already owning an insurance policy. Alternatively, you may choose to include several optional coverages with your basic plan for some extra fee.

Click HERE to get an 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.

India's economy is heavily dependent on the transport of various goods. As the world's second-most populous country and one of the fastest-growing economies, different food and industrial needs can be met only with effective and constant transport operations. Supplying goods for a population as vast as over 130 crore people isn't easy, and various modes of transport are used to meet the demand and supply requirements of the nation. Be it the well-connected train routes or the extensive trucking system, transportation is pivotal for the country.

And while the train pilots are heavily compensated and well paid, the trucking community is often neglected. With minimal pay, over the top work hours and extended working conditions, truck pilots face a lot of trouble.

Today, we highlight the most prevalent trucking violations in India.

1. Sleepless nights:
Truck drivers are constantly working for 12 hours at a stretch. Sometimes this goes on for days non-stop. Covering long distances within a given time can be challenging for the drivers. And sleepless nights and bare minimum food can add to the fatigue.
Research showed that almost 53 per cent of the current driving force face various psychological and physical issues, including but not limited to insomnia, obesity, joint pain, poor vision etc.

2. Extended work hours:
Since most truckers come from low-income groups, they are always looking for ways to work extra hours. This leads to added fatigue and exhaustion.
There have been instances when drivers have unknowingly knocked vehicles from the road and crushed the pedestrians. While there is no mandate stating the number of permissible work hours in India, it is illegal to drive for more than 10 hours at a stretch in most countries.

3. Overloading:
About 10 percent of total accidents are caused by overloading. These accidents can be caused due to various reasons such as tyre burst, loss of balance, manoeuvring the speed on an incline, worn out brakes etc. The weight of the truck changes if it's overloaded, which impacts the centre of gravity, making it challenging to handle the vehicle.

4. Poor health care:
Trucking services neglect the need to provide basic insurance to truckers and co-pilots. The truckers often turn to home remedies and generic medicines in case of injury. In most cases, they cannot afford the treatment as they prioritise reaching the destination on time. As a result, severe back pain and loss of vision have become some of the most common health issues amongst truckers.

Truckers are one of the most villainous communities on the road. However, we need to understand that they are put through extremely hostile work conditions. Providing sufficient health care and funds to truckers should be made mandatory. Limiting the working hours, maintaining a logbook and providing good resting conditions for the drivers can bring a considerable change to the trucking business in the country.

Sometimes, the truckers are responsible for bearing the cost of repairs on the truck while on the road. Burdening the drivers with such extra expense can be avoided by investing in comprehensive online motor insurance and selecting the plans that provide the best benefits. Various NGOs and individual transport companies can look for multiple covers, including health insurance, public accident insurance and motor insurance for the drivers.

Click HERE to know more about buying 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.

Several car owners consider their vehicle to be an expression of themselves. Car enthusiasts may pick aesthetic modifications for their beloved vehicle in the same way a person chooses particular outfits to showcase the style quotient.

Remember, having automobile protection accessories may help prevent any slight or significant wear and tear that occurs over time. Such accessories will undoubtedly keep your vehicle spotless, increase its longevity, and add value to your car.

However, you must strike the correct balance between aesthetic and practical modifications so that your vehicle stands out in terms of both elegance and convenience. Here are several useful and practical extensions to enhance your vehicle's overall quality.

1. Additional fog lamps:
When the primary headlights fail, the extra fog lights turn on. These are primarily helpful if the battery is dead and no other power source is available. They also use the braking system to minimise acceleration in certain circumstances, leading to a lower speed when the vehicle meets an obstacle and preventing it from veering off the road.

2. Side moulding on the body:
This is an excellent option for vehicle owners who wish to armour their cars and protect them from knocks and dents on the road. The resilient material is elastic enough to absorb the impact of slamming car doors against your side. When buying a body side moulding, you can pick from various designs and colour choices to enhance the appearance of your car's exterior.

3. Tyre-pressure monitor:
Some individuals are picky about certain aspects, while others are not. A tyre pressure monitor set could interest you if you fall into the first group. Your car's tyres should always be in perfect condition, and this device guarantees that they have the correct pressure for travel. If there is a deviation, the monitor will notify you to remedy the problem.

4. Grill protectors:
A strong grill shield protects the front of the car from severe damage caused by pebbles, tall grass, and anything that it may kick up. It can also secure the driver and passengers in minor accidents or collisions with other vehicles or wildlife.

5. Jump starters:
A jump starter may serve as a backup power source when your four-wheeler's battery fails. If you like taking long road trips, it is advisable to have a jump starter tool kit in your car. This equipment becomes even more important when driving on frigid terrains or secluded locations.

6. Hydraulic jack:
Always keep a hydraulic jack handy in your vehicle. This mechanical tool can be of great help when you need to change the tyre in case of a puncture. A hydraulic jack can reduce the mechanical effort involved in tilting or lifting the vehicle.

You can select from a plethora of accessory packages and accessible alternatives to further safeguard your four-wheeler. However, before purchasing protective gear, examine how you will operate them for the best benefit of your car's safety and needs.

Aside from protective extras such as tyre pressure monitoring, keyless locking, and additional bumpers, protecting your car with motor insurance is an investment that will surely pay off in the long term. It will provide you with a hassle-free car experience without jeopardising your safety. Therefore, look for the best motor insurance company in India to protect your car, yourself and other drivers on the road.

Click HERE to connect with 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.

Fishing is an easy sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Many people like to camp near fishing sites and spend time with family and friends. The excitement of holding the rods and attempting to catch a fish and cook it into a delectable dish is a joyful experience.

While fishing is a simple sport, newcomers interested in trying their hand at it might find it difficult to get started. Catching the first fish is a memory to cherish throughout your life, and this blog will help you accomplish that.

Let's discuss the six best tips for newcomers to get started with fishing easily.

1. Research:
It would be best to do some research before heading straight to the pond with your fishing rod. Get a general idea about fishing. Read some books on the basics of fishing to understand the process. You may even watch a few tutorials online to clear the fundamentals of preparing the rod, using the bait, and understanding the techniques involved.

2. Basics:
After you are done with your research and are familiar with the terms and equipment used in fishing, you can get started by understanding the basics and pre-fishing tasks. For example- you can learn how to put baits on the hook, tie knots, etc.

3. Bait:
You need to know about the various types of baits that attract different fish. For example, raw chicken liver attracts catfish. Adding the wrong bait can make it difficult to catch a fish. So acquaint yourself with the proper knowledge about different types of fish and the tricks used to catch them.

4. Location and weather:
Be mindful while choosing a location for your fishing trip. Look up the site on the internet and learn more about the water bodies and the types of fish that might be available (if any). A cloudy sky is considered to be the best weather for fishing. You can also catch fish in other weather conditions, but an overcast sky speaks magic comparatively. If you are not aware of the proper conditions for fishing, it could be a disappointing experience not to find anything to catch.

5. Apparel:
You need to dress for the occasion. In the case of fishing, wear boots since there is a slight chance that you might have to (or by accident) paddle into the water while catching a fish. Dressing according to the weather would make the fishing experience better for you. Wear layers if it is cloudy and chilly. Tie your long hair into a ponytail to avoid getting distracted.

6. Bug spray:
Make sure that you carry bug spray. The places around these water bodies tend to have a lot of bugs and insects (mainly mosquitoes), which might cause trouble while fishing and can get you sick if you are not careful. Using an itch-free bug spray is advisable for a comfortable fishing experience.

That's a wrap on the six best tips for newcomers in fishing. You have to be quiet around the edge of the water bodies to catch fish efficiently. Even a slight mistake can be risky and may land you into unwanted trouble. So, get the best personal accident insurance India to protect yourself against any unfortunate incidents and make your fishing experience a memorable one.

Click HERE to know more about how you can buy the best personal accident 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.