Rail travel insurance is set to become available at Indian railway reservation counters from October 27, 2026, but passengers choosing the optional cover must pay both the fare and the 45-paise premium digitally.
Key Takeaways
- The insurance option is being extended to reservation counters after being available for online bookings.
- The 45-paise premium applies per passenger and includes taxes.
- Eligible bookings include confirmed, RAC and partially confirmed tickets, with cover also possible for mixed-status passengers on one PNR.
How rail travel insurance payments will work
The Railway Board has told zonal railways that staff must ensure digital payment when a counter passenger opts for insurance. Officials said 5, 10, 20 and 25-paise coins are no longer legal tender, so the premium cannot be collected in cash.
The extension follows an October 6 Supreme Court order. On October 26, the Centre for Railway Information Systems said it had completed the necessary reservation software changes and was testing them ahead of the planned rollout.
A CRIS official said passengers cancelling tickets would forfeit 9 paise of the premium, in addition to other applicable cancellation charges.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Death or permanent total disability | Up to Rs 10 lakh |
| Permanent partial disability | Up to Rs 7.5 lakh |
| Hospitalisation expenses for injuries | Up to Rs 2 lakh |
| Transport of mortal remains | Up to Rs 10,000 |
Who can obtain cover
The Railway Board said the facility is available for tickets that are confirmed, under Reservation Against Cancellation (RAC), or partially confirmed at the time of booking.
A railway official said passengers travelling on one PNR with a mixture of confirmed and wait-listed passengers can also be covered if they choose insurance and travel. The premium applies to each passenger.
Reservation staff must record passengers' mobile numbers and other required details for transmission to the insurer, which will issue the policy. The existing terms for insured e-ticket passengers also apply to policies issued at reservation counters.
Coverage limits
The optional scheme provides different maximum amounts depending on the loss or expense. Its 45-paise premium, inclusive of taxes, has been in effect since February 17, 2024.
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