GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

There was a time when only those with unbelievable daring and high tolerance levels could enjoy rock climbing. But today, time is changing; with modern gears and professional instructors, anyone with passion and some training can exercise the sport of climbing.
Mountain climbing is the sport of climbing rocky surfaces with the aid of ropes and equipment. The goal is to reach an endpoint or a summit of a structure.

It is a physically demanding sport that combines fitness and agility with mental strength. It forces you to push your body's ability further to conquer an ascend or traverse. It may be difficult for some, but that is just another positive aspect of the adventure. The activity gives you a mental and physical boost with an immense sense of accomplishment.

One of the significant benefits is boosting your leadership qualities. As rock climbing is a preferred group activity, it becomes the ultimate classroom with lessons applicable to all aspects of life, including business, management, and leadership.

So, here are some of the important lessons you learn during your way up that eventually make a big difference in your leadership skills.

Trust – important of all! Trust and confidence within the team of climbers is a quintessential skill required during mountain climbing. You may enter situations where your life depends upon your teammate's abilities, and for this, their capability and competence must convince you. Trust cannot be earned or given in a moment. It requires several sub qualities like confidence, proficiency, transparency, and patience. You need to be familiar with each other's strengths and weaknesses and to be confident about relying on someone in the future.

Everyone has their fortes in climbing. For example, some are proficient in rock climbing, whereas others secure the rope while your partner climbs, so we must trust each other to lead when necessary. These are qualities of a good leader that he acts as a team player and not a commander.

Decision making – a remarkable ability! The adventure compels you to make many pivotal and critical decisions during your climb. Your one wrong decision can lead to a consequential mission termination, delay conquering the rock or even a mishap. It requires clarity of mind to work through solving problems. Being able to prioritise and understand the bigger picture is critical to navigating through obstacles.

A great way of decision-making in such environmental conditions is the OODA loop used by the US military. OODA stands for observe, orient, decide and act. OODA is a four-step loop approach that focuses on decision making by filtering available information, putting it in context, and making the most appropriate decision while understanding that alterations should be made (if necessary) when more data is gathered. It is helpful in scenarios where the ability to react to changing circumstances is vital.

Another leadership quality is 'care and concern'. No doubt on the hike, you look out for each other, but that is not enough. Ensure that everyone has a personal accident insurance policy, as it is a necessity that many may overlook.

Is a good leader enough for a successful trek trip? Absolutely not! Every individual requires a skill set for this sport. Skills of navigation, communications, survival, and climbing are all necessary. In addition, rock climbing requires courage and determination. The hard work of ascending is worth the peace at the top.

Click HERE to know more about our personal accident 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.

Women taking over the world has defeated the dependency on others to get things done. Female drivers are just another example of this scenario as they are considered safer drivers than males.

However, the risks for women on the road are twice as compared; especially if you are a lady driving alone as you are exposed to many dangers. A female driver needs to be extra cautious to avoid undesirable events such as falling victim to hijacking, stalking, assault, or worse, murders. Here are a few tips to prevent from these situations happening and keep you driving safe.

1. Maintain your vehicle:

• Maintenance will assure you fewer chances of the vehicle breaking down midway through your journey.

• Get the car thoroughly checked before every long trip and in regular intervals for daily commute.

• Do not forget to keep an eye on the fuel indicator.

• Look out for unfamiliar noises of the car and get it checked from a reputed garage immediately.

2. Learn the basics:

• Acquire complete knowledge of the car, including its engine capacity, tyres, oil, and fuel capacity.

• Every female driver should know how to change a flat tyre, jumpstart the battery, clean up the carburettor, etc.

• Top up your oil, antifreeze whenever needed.

3. On-road safety:

• Lock the car doors first as soon as you enter.

• Park the car in a settled area and check your backseat when you get in the vehicle.

• Do not interact with anyone on the road.

• Never offer a ride to strangers, especially when alone.

• Always inform at least one person from your circle about your trip details and plans.

• Avoid pulling over at dark and isolated places.

• Install a certified GPS device in the car and give access to your close people

4. Driving suggestions:

• Beware of easy distractions such as using your phone, loud music, zoning out, eating or drinking. You need to keep your eyes on the road and stay alert while driving.

• When required to stop, make sure to turn on the flashers and then pull over slowly.

• Flashers should be on in case of breakdowns, illegal parking, tyre change, lousy weather or slowing down to exit.

• If you notice someone following your car, drive to the closest police station to get help.

• Honk your horn only in critical situations like blind turns, warning someone, to avoid collisions or possibly dangerous circumstances.

• Maintain a distance of at least 8-10 feet from every vehicle ahead of you.

5. Insure your vehicle:

• Refrain from driving without car insurance.

• Insurance can serve as a support aid when caught in unfortunate situations such as road accidents, breakage, etc.

• The insurance company will also track down your location and reach there in emergencies.

• Keep your car insurance up to date. Car insurance renewal is requisite when it is about to expire or expired.

Driving alone is not always scary and of insecurity. Yet, women have to take precautions to ignore indulging in misfortunate events and be their own protector. Increase your safety while driving by being alert, paying attention to your surroundings, keeping your car maintained, car insurance renewal before expiry, follow driving instructions and so on. We hope that these tips will add to your security and keep you guarded when driving around alone.

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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.

Today, climate change is a severe concern. According to a survey published by IQAir, India now has 22 of the 30 most polluted cities globally, which is alarming! Nations around the globe are researching to find environmentally friendly alternatives for everything that feed on fossil fuels. India, too, has set a goal of reaching zero greenhouse emissions by the year 2050. For that, the country is exploring electric mobility solutions that will cut down severely on greenhouse emissions.

When we talk about the electric mobility of the country, its primary segment is the electric scooters. According to nationwide surveys, the market of e-scooters in India will grow by 25-30% by the year 2030. Reasons for these impressive figures are the constant hikes in fuel prices and also the rising pollution levels. Thus, E-scooters are the next big thing in India, making them flash in the headlines in India.

We've seen plenty of new businesses competing for professional status in the electric scooter sector in the recent past. Their advantages reflect their focus on newer technologies, cutting-edge designs, accessibility, and practicality. However, more encouraging is the arrival of international electric two-wheeler powerhouses in the Indian market.

The Indian government recognises the importance of environmental sustainability and renewable energy. It has launched programmes such as 'Switch Delhi' and 'Go electric' to encourage citizens to use electric vehicles. Below, in brief, we've discussed the pros of e-scooters and why you should think of getting one in future.

Environmentally friendly: Electric scooters are ecologically friendly since they reduce the emission of harmful greenhouse gases such as CO2. Every time you ride an electric bike, you're contributing towards a cleaner environment.

Pocket friendly: If you use an e-bike instead of a traditional motorbike, you will save huge money in the long term. Petrol and gasoline are expensive in most nations, and price increases can significantly affect your budget. With e-bikes, you can purchase low-cost batteries that can go 18-50 miles on a single charge.

*Quick math – an e-scooter consumes around 250 watts of power for 20 minutes of driving. Because the cost of electric power per unit (1000 watts running continuously for an hour) is Rs 5, it is evident that electric scooters are reasonably affordable.

Low maintenance cost: You no longer have to be concerned about the upkeep of your scooter. Because of the electric engine, you don't have to spend extra money on time-consuming activities like oil changes, filter cleaning, and gasoline, typically with standard two-wheelers.

Financial incentives: Indian Government provides tax benefits to owners of electric vehicles. Loans are also made accessible at cheaper interest rates, encouraging more people to buy e-scooter. In addition, the Department of Heavy Industries recently revised the 2019 Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME-II) initiative to provide 50% more incentives for the electric scooters sector.

Easy to the Ears: In India, noise pollution has long exceeded permitted limits and has become a severe problem, particularly in metropolitan areas. Switching to an e-scooter can help with health issues, including anxiety, tension, and headaches, as they are almost silent due to the absence of disturbing noises of combustion engines.

Pat yourself on the back if you're planning to go for an electric vehicle or use one already. The future is certainly electric, and not only you're part of it, but you're also helping this world become greener. While you contribute to our mother earth's safety, protect your e-scooter by getting 2 wheeler insurance online for it. If you're planning to buy a scooter, then GO GREEN...GO ELECTRIC!

Click HERE to get the best 2 wheeler 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.

Are you turning 18 soon and just starting your life as a motorcyclist? Most of the teens are filled with enthusiasm and hold a different excitement for bike riding. That's quite obvious as the adrenaline rush of turning 18 keeps the soon-to-be-adults on the tips of their toes.

Are you excited to start riding but don't know how to get started? In this space, we've put together some key points to ponder on if you're a newbie rider, also acquainting you with important terms like basics of riding, bike maintenance, and bike insurance.

1. Choose your model and learning space wisely:
As you start anew, you must choose the best-fit model. It should not be too bulky or heavy; rather, it should be modest, lightweight, and easy to handle for you. After all, you will be riding the bike, so you cannot compromise convenience over physical appearance. The second step is to choose the learning space where you can start riding. It is not advisable to get on the heavy traffic roads of India for a beginner. So, better choose the roadway with flattened or open ground, less bumpy, and with fewer vehicles around; this will help you make your learning process hassle-free.

2. Learn about the components & functionalities:
You cannot glide on the road directly without having basic knowledge about your bike. Be proficient with the parts of your bike and understand their working. You should know the fundamentals like the clutch lever, gear shifter, rear brake, throttle, side stand, accelerator, etc. Anytime, good research can help you uncover the unknowns, and this information can surprisingly come to your rescue if your bike faces any faults.

3. Buckle up and get started:
Get on your bike, make sure you side up the middle stand first. Give ignition, roll on your clutch, and adjust yourself in a comfortable driving position. Shift your gear in neutral, wait for half a minute, and let the engine start properly. You need to be alert at all times and keep the clutch, gear shift, brake and accelerator in rhythm to allow the bike to move smoothly. If you are not confident with your driving skills, take some learning classes from a certified motor training school.

4. Maintenance of the bike:
Like any other machine, your bike also needs the care to provide you with a smooth and safe riding experience. You can do this by scheduling an appointment for complete bike servicing and washing that will boost the performance of your bike. In addition to it, just as life insurance covers your damages, your bike needs BIKE INSURANCE to shield it from any mishap. But are all the two-wheelers owners meeting their responsibility of safe riding? Unfortunately, many of them don't even hold a valid two-wheeler insurance policy. So always be a responsible rider and carry a valid insurance policy for your bike.

5. Ace it with practice:
Be it a bike or any other activity, 'practice' is the key to excellence. Practice safe driving and follow all the traffic rules when on roads. Always wear safety gear like helmets, gloves, bumper jackets before hopping on your bike. Remember that the greatest pleasures can be enjoyed only if you’re safe and sound.

6. Be alert – potholes ahead on the road:
Be a responsible driver, and don’t let the excitement turn sour due to recklessness while driving on bumpy roads or ignoring potholes and stray animals on the roads. There are no magic tips to manage these situations. The only solution is to avoid them by slowing down your speed. There is no other secret.
Lastly, keep patience along with your enthusiasm, and don't rush while learning. You'd look cool on a bike, but always remember that life is more important than the ride. Follow the rules and invest in an ideal bike insurance policy for the comprehensive security of your asset.

Click HERE to know about the bike insurance plans that are best for you.

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 is no doubt that the relationship of an Indian with food is above and beyond anything else. We don't just love the food, we worship it. Every time someone talks about food, and we get all nostalgic and tempted about it. Food is possibly India's biggest obsession.

Travelling from place to place to explore the best food and culture is another trend which is quite popular in India. If you are a foodie and looking for some famous cuisines, there are boundless cuisines exploring options you can find. Below are the best 5 amazing food tours you must try as a food lover.

1. Mumbai: ‘The city that never sleeps’ holds a speciality in street food as well as fusion dishes. In the city of nightlife, you will find a whole range of cuisines served at night too. Some remarkable famous signature delicacies are Vada Pav (local trademark snack of Mumbaikars), Pav Bhaji, Misal Pav, Dabeli, Bombay style Chowpatty Bhelpuri, and whatnot! Savoury food with a hint of Maharashtrian spices and taste is all you need to bless your tastebuds.

2. Old Delhi: It won't be wrong if we call Delhi as ‘food capital’ of India! Historical places, super delicious food, and politics are in the blood of Delhi. Delhi is famous for its street food and traditional cuisine of 'Purani Dilli' (Old Delhi). The famous landmark, of course, is ‘Paranthe Wali Gali’ in Chandni Chowk. The series of shops selling varieties of parathas make it the most happening food destination.

Other delicacies of Delhi food culture include Momos, Kebabs, Chhole Kulche, Paneer Pakora, Mughlai Biryani, and a large variety of chats. Crowned with their signature desserts like Jalebi with Rabri and Kulfi Falooda, Delhi perfectly satisfies your sweet tooth.

3. Ahmedabad / Surat: Gujarati delicacies exhibit homely comfort food with complex flavours, oscillating among sweet, spicy and savoury. Ahmedabad, aka Amdavad and Surat ‘The sun city', are both filled with food streets loaded with huffy-puffy food. As the significant population is vegetarian, here the food is full of vegetarian options. 'Manek chowk' is a prominent place loved by Gujjus. You will get fusion eating options created from traditional dishes, such as Khaman-Dhokla, Surti Locho, Jalebi Fafda, Khakhra, Undhiyu-puri, Khandvi, variety of Farsan, Thepla, and last but not the least is the whole ambit of 'Kathiyawadi' delicacies.

4. Amritsar: When it comes to counting the best of taste, you cannot miss out on the contemporary north Indian food of Amritsar. As you step into the streets of Punjab, the utterly buttery aroma of Amritsari Chole-Kulche, Karah Prasad of Golden Temple, and ghee emerging from Sarso da saag with Makki di roti is mouth-watering.
The food of langar at the Golden Temple is what makes this food tour worth it. A whole ambit of large Amritsari glass of Lassi and buttermilk will drench your heart with happiness.

5. Bengaluru: Famed as the IT hub of India, Bengaluru has preserved and marked its cultural flag with authentic South Indian food and its incredible taste. A quiet morning with a South Indian breakfast is the major ritual of true-blue Bangalorean.
Masala Dosa at CTR, Filtered Coffee, Seafood platter, Idli with four style Sambar, tomato chutney, Medu Vada, Dal Vada, Rassam, the whole trunk of South Indian variety is exclusive here. Wrapping up this south Indian elegance with Coconut Lassi and Payasam tastes straight from a local chef's kitchen.

On a conclusive note, while visiting all these places for your food tour, consider another essential factor of your health and safety. You're likely to catch a 'Delhi-Belly' if you ignore the hygiene factor at the roadside eateries. Avoid drinking tap water or eating uncovered cut fruits as much as possible. Also, avoid unforeseen health issues caused by travelling and experimental food tours by protecting yourself with good health insurance. If already not purchased, you can opt for an ONLINE HEALTH INSURANCE policy before planning your next food trip to any of these destinations. Keep exploring the world on your plate!

Are you looking for an online health insurance? 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.

Going on bike rides in India is an enthralling experience, as our country is home to awe-inspiring landscapes, natural beauty and colourful local rural life. From the snowy Himalayan range to the lush green forests of Kerala, the sandy deserts of Rajasthan, to the beaches of West Bengal, one can never be bored.

As you see, there are many bike routes that any travel enthusiast will be excited to go on, but we have shortlisted the top 5 bike trips you must not miss!

1. To the highest motorable road in the world (Manali – Leh): It is probably one of the most recommended routes for bike trips, and it is famous for all the right reasons. Every second spent away from work and home is worth watching the picturesque scenes pass by. You will come across the beautiful and challenging Rohtang, Gulaba, Khardungla Pass, Dorcha passes on the way. Winter jackets and thermal wear are necessary as the climate is exceptionally chilly.

The tour lasts for about 12 days and 11 nights. The total driving distance is 1055 km from Delhi, and it is worth every mile. The best time for this trip is from July to September. Take refreshment breaks to enjoy warm sips of hot coffee/tea as you en-route towards your destination.

2. The road towards yellow sands and palaces (Jodhpur – Jaisalmer): You cannot possibly find a better way to explore these traditionally rich and rustic cities. These places are all about their palaces, music, dance, and authentic mouth-watering traditional cuisines. It is ideal for bikers who are curious to explore beyond just nature and concentrate on the city's glorious history, rich heritage, and tiny nooks and corners.

3. Riding on the salt marshes (Ahmedabad – Rann of Kutch): The short tour is full of surprises. It is the perfect blend of nature, tradition, and escapade. Don't forget to have a night's stay at a Bhunga (mud house) to experience the local lifestyle. Plan your trip during a full moon because watching the full moon from the Rann is considered a liberating moment in life.

4. To the French heritage town (Chennai – Pondicherry): For the people in Chennai, Pondicherry is a great weekend getaway. A ride along the east coast will take you through tranquil sunsets by the beach, along with eye-catching green rice fields and fascinating fishing villages.

Though many people don't take any halts, there are a few underrated places worth visiting on your way to the French town, like the Chunnambar backwaters and the Dutch Fort.

5. In God's own country (Kochi – Ooty): You will feel close to nature in Kerala, nestled in sublime greenery; the tropical place makes you feel alive. The journey begins from the beautiful city Kochi and continues along the Arabian coastal strip with a soothing breeze encompassing your soul, straight towards the hilly terrain of the state.

You will come across several tea and coffee plantations, which produce the best and most expensive coffee beans in the world. Overall, the plantations, beaches, and backwaters will rejuvenate you! The recommended season is summer, between March and May.

A helpful tip: Bike rides are the best way to connect with nature and learn about a region's traditions, food, and art forms. But, you may not know specific state laws regarding tourists and driving, so go through travel websites to stay out of legal trouble. Also, get your bike an essential servicing, carry a basic tool kit and always ensure valid 2 WHEELER INSURANCE before going on such trips.

Click HERE to know about 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.

On a limited budget, going organic and all-natural sounds unusual. Still, the truth is that eating organic is not only better for you, but it is also better for the environment. Let us know, how. Organic food is chemical-free, 100% natural and full of health. In addition, it is environment friendly as natural fertilizers like cow dung or manure and kitchen wastes are used for farming instead of pesticides.

Organic foods are popular among health-conscious consumers, although they might be more expensive than other foods farmed conventionally. Harvesting and managing organic crops is time-consuming for the farmers, thus making them more costly for the consumers. So how can you manage your health and budget wisely? It is certainly conceivable, even though it appears to be impossible. Here are a few ways to manage eating organic foods while on a budget.

1. Shop at budget-friendly stores: The first approach to save money on organic is to shop at the correct place. Stop by the local market on a weekday to see how cheaper local food may be than imported stuff. Deals are constantly available for you to take advantage of.

When you buy organic food at a farmers' market, you may expect fresh and less expensive organic produce than you would find in a supermarket. In this way, you even contribute to promoting the sincere efforts of the local farmers, and you assure maximum profit to the farmers by buying directly from them.

2. Cultivate your garden: You will save some money on vegetables if you grow your own organic produce. You don't even need to have a large garden to grow organic vegetables. You may grow your favourite vegetables in pots, which occupy very little space. Even better, you may choose a raised bed, which is ideal for packing many vegetables into a bit of space.

3. Purchase produce that is in season: Buying produce, even organic stuff, is usually less expensive when it is in season. This is owing to plentiful supply and the fact that it has not been shipped halfway around the world. Seasonal organic vegetables have the advantage of being less expensive, fresh, and more nutritious. If you're not sure when your favourite organic food is in season, check out one of the many seasonal produce guides available online.

4. Consider organic frozen food: Fresh vegetables are always healthier than frozen ones, regardless of the conditions. That isn't always the case, though, as frozen fruits and vegetables are just as healthy and nutritious as their fresh counterparts. Frozen food is collected and frozen at the peak of its season, ensuring that it preserves its nutritional content. On the other hand, fresh veggies lose some nutrients over time when they travel longer distances to retailers. Therefore, consider buying frozen organic food next time you are shopping.

5. Purchase in large quantities: Buying in bulk saves money because most things are less expensive than a single package. However, buying in bulk, even if you don't need it, will result in waste. It exacerbates the problem by removing money from your pockets you can spend on the food you genuinely require.

We hope you no longer have to compromise over the quality of your food simply because your budget is getting in the way of it. If healthy practices are managed efficiently, they can be pocket-friendly, focusing on sustainability and a nourished lifestyle. Healthy practices even include investing in health insurance. When buying health insurance, do not necessarily go by the conventional method; instead, you can buy ONLINE HEALTH INSURANCE conveniently from your smartphone or desktop.

Click HERE to explore our online health insurance services.

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.

Road trips are the best part of any vacation, and if it is with family, then nothing can be perfect than this. Family road trips can turn into a great time for everyone by strengthening the bond among the members.

A road trip can either feel like an exhausting chore with endless hours of constant irritation or a fun-filled adventure with memories that will last a lifetime. It depends entirely on planning a trip and what engaging elements you try to include during your journey.

Are you in a dilemma about how your family trip turns out to be? Then, before you hit the road, be sure to read our recommendations to prepare for a family road trip. These tips will help keep the children happy, parents sane, grandparents comfortable, and make your trip a memorable one.

1. Make frequent halts: Go on the internet to look for exciting places you can stop by on your way to keep everyone engaged. Even stopping at a regular park or a garden space allows everyone to stretch their bodies and get to enjoy themselves. You can also carry a Frisbee to play as these small fun activities keep the excitement intact for the long drive. Driving can be exhausting, so taking breaks helps the driver to de-stress and helps to regain concentration. Refreshment stops are a must. You can discover varieties of food and great highway-side restaurants if you decide to have a meal on the road.

2. Plan your route: Nowadays, most cars come equipped with GPS. Still, you should plan a route suitable for you before leaving. Check if the weather conditions, in any way, would affect your course. It is difficult and dangerous to drive on certain roads in monsoon season, especially the landslide-prone mountain areas. So, try to avoid them as some have traffic congestion while others may be blocked. Keep a physical paper map to navigate through the journey. It comes in handy when you lose a network connection. Plus, it will be a great real-life geography lesson for your kids while travelling.

3. Food and Entertainment: We can quickly be bored on a long trip. And we tend to eat whenever we are bored. So, pack healthy goodies like sandwiches, protein bars, and fruits. Avoid carrying and consuming eatables that can make a person with motion sickness feel nauseous. Instead of sitting in your car and uncomfortably having your meal, you can also plan a picnic at a rest stop or try new hotels and dhabas on your way. Another solution for boredom is to have some good entertainment. Enjoy some good music, make a playlist with songs that everyone likes. Audiobooks are a great way to listen and learn something new.

4. Get comfortable, but safety first: Carry a couple of comforters, blankets, and pillows to ensure a refreshing nap. A neck pillow can be a favourite item for long drives. Along with comfort, ensuring safety is also essential. Make sure to buckle your kids safely in a car seat or a booster seat. Also, have an emergency first-aid kit ready with you. Check your car's tires, oil changing status, wirings, and level of fuel. Carelessness on the roads is something that you cannot afford to do, especially with your family and kids.

What do you think about going on long road trips with your family? With Covid restrictions easing out, you can now plan a long road trip soon to make some priceless memories with your family. Before you leave, double-check your driver's license and other essential papers like PUC and motor insurance. As ONLINE MOTOR INSURANCE is available, you don't need a hard copy of the documents; a soft copy will be enough. Nonetheless, have a fun drive, and enjoy a vacation with family!

Click HERE to know more about online motor insurance for your car.

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.