GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Buying a house is a significant milestone in most people’s lives. It is not just an investment but also a status symbol that displays your wealth. In India, purchasing a home is seen as an achievement that most young adults wish to fulfil to get stable in their lives. However, there are several risks to consider before making this purchase. Since it is a high-value investment, you must be prepared to protect it against mishaps. There is a constant threat to your home due to natural calamities, break-ins, or third-party damages, to name a few.

A home security system installation not only secures your home from multiple threats, it also gives those with a pre-installed security system an advantage. Since the chances of damage are relatively lower for secure homes, your home insurance claims are proportionately lower. Therefore, you must consider purchasing a well-suited home security system irrespective of the cost.

This blog discusses some factors to consider the best home security system to protect it from potential threats.

1. Assess entry and exit points:
While you cannot prevent uncontrollable events like natural disasters, it is possible to monitor your home for suspicious activities around your home. Thoroughly assess the layout of your house and identify entry points. Ensure that a sensor is attached to every door or window, or install cameras nearby that can capture the entire view.

2. Technologically integrated devices:
Once you secure your entry locations, all that is left is to secure the inside of the house. Several single-purpose tools like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fuel gas sensors, and accessories like remote monitors and controllers allow you to control your home remotely. Through these, you can detect issues at the earliest and handle the situation before it gets out of hand and call the required authorities if needed.

3. External monitoring devices:
Keeping a monitoring device like a camera facing outside with a live feed is a method to keep intruders away. While this may be expensive, it guarantees that everything is safe at your home. The same can be applied to cameras inside the house, but since it can violate your privacy, we recommend limiting it to personal supervision. Ensure that your cameras are placed at a well-lit location and cover all entry points and any external attached area like garden space or shared spaces with neighbours.

4. Emergency buttons:
You need a handy emergency or panic button in case there is an escalation that requires the intervention of emergency services. These devices are designed to immediately call for emergency service providers by clicking the button. Ensure that they are placed at a height that kids cannot reach but are accessible easily in an emergency.

Home security systems are crucial features in keeping your home safe. With the increasing risk and crime rates, its requirement is only increasing. While it is an excellent addition, it should be coupled with a comprehensive home insurance policy to keep your home safe and cover any incidental costs incurred. If you wish to buy home insurance online India, the process is simplified to take minimal time and maximum benefit.

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.

The train rides offer you to experience India's great culture and heritage as you cross stations and states. The Indian Railways has always been working at the forefront to bring the best of incredible India to citizens and visitors by connecting the nation's glory and heritage landmarks. And all this is achieved with the strong network of railways, which is indeed the lifeline of India. The Railways operates special heritage trains and tours to bring people and experiences together.

Among the excitement and thrill of heritage train riding that you may undertake soon, let's not forget the importance of insurance. As an individual, you never know when uncertainties can kick in, so better always to stay prepared! And general insurance is the best and safest way to make your experience less stressful and more enjoyable, knowing that your travel is safeguarded by reliable insurance coverage.

Here are a few top heritage trains in India that one shouldn't miss.

1. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR):
One of India's best-known and most popular trains is the toy train, which runs between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling. The journey takes you through hills and dense forests, with views of Mt. Kanchenjunga on clear days. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railways (DHR) toy train trip is akin to a soothing lullaby in the middle of a fantastical environment.
A cheerful train ride over the foggy lines from Darjeeling to New Jalpaiguri would undoubtedly restore the romance in a person. If you didn't already know, UNESCO designated and recognised this Toy Train as a World Heritage Site on December 5, 1999.

2. Deccan Odyssey:
Modelled after the royal carriages of ancient India, the iconic and luxurious Deccan Odyssey offers top-of-the-line amenities and services. It features a library, Ayurvedic massage centre, beauty salon, gym, business centre, and a conference room.
A Deccan Odyssey train journey is a wonderful way to learn more about the ancient folklore of civilisations and the reigns of dynasties that made their remarkable imprint in India's history. It offers comfortable and spacious cabins, dining and sightseeing facilities. You'll stop at cities such as Mumbai, Badami, Hospet, Bijapur and Hyderabad. Upon arrival in each of these destinations, you'll have a chance to explore the places.

3. Golden Chariot:
The Golden Chariot is a luxury train that offers its passengers the best immersive experience of South India. It features a lounge bar, LCD television, DVD player, Wi-Fi, and central air conditioning. It also features a variety of therapeutic massages onboard. From the cultural extravaganza of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu to the adventure hotspots of Goa, Golden Chariot travels down the enchanting routes of Southern India. The cabins reflect the rich heritage of the erstwhile Dravidian era and are furnished in a modern manner. Don't miss the opportunity to witness cultural and heritage magnificence with the taste of luxury with the Golden Chariot.

4. Ramayana Express:
Under the excellent initiative of "Dekho Apna Desh" of the Indian government, the Ramayana Express is not just a train but a treasure trove of knowledge and heartful experiences that will take you back to the mythological era.
This divine train originates from Delhi Safdarjung and covers all the major destinations related to Ramayan and Lord Rama, like Varanasi, Nasik, Chitrakoot, Rameswaram, and more. The entire tour duration is 17 days, and it is a fantastic opportunity to discover more about the colourful culture and the influence of the many miracles of Ramayana.

Heritage trains in India are not just tourist attractions but also an immersive way to experience the history and culture of the region. Though many of these trains have undergone changes over the years for the safety of travellers and technical advancements, they still maintain the charm and nostalgic feel of bygone eras. Still, for your safety and assurance, you may always opt for general insurance as a backup to cover your finances in case any damages are incurred during your trip.

Click HERE to buy general insurance to make your travel safer than the rest.

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 “work-from-home” culture has gained prominence in India since the beginning of Covid-19 in 2020. Now, this culture is picking up pace, and many companies are urging their employees to work from home, knowing its advantages for both employers and employees. However, there are endless distractions at home in the form of answering doorbells, chaos due to daily household chores, and the absence of a proper working environment. Kids can also take up much of your time at home and distract you from your important office work.

So, how can you set up your personal workspace at your home amidst all these problems? Here is a guide to help you design your “work-from-home” office with minimal distractions and more productivity.

1. Create a separate corner:
Create a separate corner for yourself at home for your personal workspace. It can be a separate room, if available, a corner of a room, or any other space that can be distraction-free. Do not hesitate to tell everyone in the household that this is your personal area for office work, and no one should encroach upon it, especially when you are busy.
Try to put a partition in your working area, such as a glass door, as it will help you keep it noise-free. Other house members will think twice before entering it while you are working, and you can concentrate on your work.

2. Whiteboard / Pin-up area:
Get a whiteboard or a pinboard that you can hang on a wall in your working area. Develop the habit of regularly making a to-do list and jotting down small notes. You can note down what you intend to do the entire day. Setting up small goals inspires you to work harder and achieve them. Also, by doing this, you will never miss any task or forget important things.

3. Make your work-area aesthetic:
Make your workspace at home aesthetic. Get the area painted with vibrant and bright colours that appeal to your senses and help you stay jovial. Decorate the area with small and beautiful showpieces. Make sure your space is well-lit and properly ventilated to give you a fresh feeling throughout the day. All this will help you stay active, sharp, and in a joyous mood, and you can concentrate more on your work.

4. Get a good ergonomic chair:
Working from home can mean sitting in one place for long hours at a stretch. Also, the chair present at your house will most probably not be suitable for work. Go and buy an ergonomic chair that can support your natural posture and help you to reduce the strain on your lower back. Get a good desk along with a chair. A good sitting setup can greatly help increase your productivity and motivation levels.

5. Buy the necessary equipment:
If you intend to create a “work-from-home” office and use it for a long time, you will have to invest in good technological equipment. This may require a high-speed wi-fi network, a good professional laptop, a printer, etc. Also, place shelves and drawers that you will need for keeping your necessary files, folders, and papers. This will make you more organised, oriented, and focused.

Creating a “work-from-home” office at home may appear to be challenging, but it is more fun to do if managed correctly. You need to dedicate your complete focus and concentration to your work. Hence, each family member should cooperate fully and not disturb you while working.

You must secure a separate space at home for your work if you want to continue it for a long time. A home is where you spend most of your time and make memories. While making your home a dedicated workspace, it is also crucial to plan and invest in its safety. Purchase reliable home insurance to protect it against any possible mishap or damage caused by fire, theft, and even natural calamities.

Click HERE to buy the best home insurance to safeguard your valuable asset.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

● The sole preservation of flora and fauna

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

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

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

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

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

● Tourists spend more time outdoors with nature and communities

● It develops a loving relationship with nature

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

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

Click HERE to buy an online general insurance policy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click HERE to buy general insurance online.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click HERE to know more about general insurance plans.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click HERE to know more about house insurance India.

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