GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Two-wheelers are seemingly simple machines. Raising the accelerator may seem enough to get your ride started. However, it is far more complex than that. The balanced working of multiple components results in a well-functioning two-wheeler. At the core of its functioning is the battery. Responsible for the electrical charge generation, which makes the continuous flow of operations possible, the battery is no less than the heart of the two-wheeler.

Considering the complexity of components and the risk of safety, theft, etc., one must purchase the best two wheeler insurance in India. An ideal policy offers comprehensive coverage, including crucial components like the battery.

In the case of standard fuel-powered two-wheelers, there are three types of batteries to know about.

• Wet or conventional batteries
As the name suggests, they hold the charge as the acid in liquid form. When it performs its function as a conductor, it also produces hydrogen. The toxic byproduct is a threat as it is highly flammable. Such batteries have a plastic casing and require regular inspection and fluid top-ups.

• Dry cell batteries
These batteries are far more convenient than wet batteries. They are safer due to their stopper and include acid in a separate section. These require minimal maintenance and come in dark colours like black or grey.

• Gel batteries
This form is considered the safest and most convenient battery type. The vacuum-sealed batteries perform under pressure only and do not come with the possibility of leaks or spills.

Apart from conventional battery types, the wave of electric vehicles has introduced new battery types. Listed below are the types of batteries in electric two-wheelers.

• Lithium-ion batteries
These are one of the most effective and hassle-free batteries in electric vehicles. They operate on lithium-ion that is connected by an electrolyte. The anode is connected to the positive end, and the cathode is connected to the negative one. They are incredibly light and bear extreme effectiveness. They can be charged without any hassles and offer fast charging.

• Lead acid batteries
Initially, lead-acid batteries were the most popular for electric vehicles. They are strong, reasonably priced, and very durable. They were the first choice for most automobile companies as the manufacturing cost of these batteries is extremely low. However, they are heavy and get discharged quickly. Apart from that, they can only be used for a short time. These batteries get damaged easily over some time.

• Nickel metal hydride
Nickel metal hydride is used for not only electric vehicles but also hybrid ones. Since they are quite expensive, most manufacturers do not prefer using these in their vehicles. The battery consists of electrodes with an alkaline electrolyte in between. The charging happens between the electrodes only, which can take a lot of time. However, these batteries are exposed to minor damage or leakage.

• Solid state
This is one of the latest batteries added to the list. They are still in the early stages of development. Only some companies are currently manufacturing these batteries, predominantly located in Taiwan. These companies are still trying to make them practical for future use. The only difference between these batteries is a solid electrolyte instead of a liquid one. As opposed to liquid electrolytes, they are safer and more effective. They also last longer and provide more support.

You need to know these pointers about the batteries used in two-wheeler vehicles in India. Considering the volatile nature of electric charges and chemical reactions, safety is paramount when dealing with such machines. Another threat is accidents, which are always uncertain and can financially wreck an individual. Consider purchasing the best two wheeler insurance in India to safeguard yourself against replacement and accident costs.

Click HERE to buy the best two wheeler insurance in India.

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

Back pain is a common condition among older adults and can significantly impact their quality of life. Chronic back pain can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks and participate in physical activities, leading to a sedentary lifestyle and other health problems. While there are several treatment options for back pain, such as medications and physical therapy, stretching is an effective and natural way to manage and prevent back pain.

As we age, we may experience back pain for various reasons, such as poor posture, lack of physical activity, arthritis, or injuries. One of the most systematic and effective ways to manage and prevent back pain is by regularly stretching the back muscles. Here are a few top back pain stretches for older adults to improve mobility. Practice these poses and stretches daily to stay on top of your health. Let's get started.

1. Child's pose stretch
The child's pose is a gentle stretch that can relieve tension in the lower back. To perform this stretch, firstly, kneel on the floor. Your toes should touch, and your knees should be hip-width apart. Lower your hips onto your heels and stretch your arms out before you. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds to 1 minute and breathe deeply.

Benefits:
● Removes tension in the lower back and hips
● Calms the mind
● Reduces stress and anxiety
● It improves digestion and helps with constipation

2. Cat-Cow stretch
The cat-cow stretch targets the upper and lower back muscles, promoting flexibility and mobility. Start on your hands and knees. Your hands should be shoulder-width apart and your knees hip-width apart. Arch your back towards the ceiling, tucking your chin to your chest (cat pose). Then, lower your back towards the floor and lift your head and tailbone towards the direction of the ceiling. This is the cow pose. Alternate between the two postures for 1-2 minutes.

Benefits:
● Increases flexibility and mobility of the spine
● Relieves tension in the neck and shoulders
● Improves posture
● Revitalises the organs in the abdomen, thus improving digestion

3. Seated forward bend
The seated forward bend is an excellent stretch for the hamstrings and lower back muscles. Sit on the floor. Your legs should be straight before you. Next, hinge forward from your hips, reaching towards your toes. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then slowly return to a seated position.

Benefits:
● Stretches hamstring and lower back muscles
● It helps with anxiety and stress
● Relieves tension in the neck and shoulders

4. Knee-to-chest stretch
The knee-to-chest stretch targets the muscles in the lower back and hips. Lie on your back. Your knees should be bent. Along with this, your feet are supposed to be flat on the floor. Pull one knee towards your chest using your hands. Hold in this position for twenty seconds to half a minute. Release. Next, you must repeat the same procedure with your other leg to benefit from this posture.

Benefits:
● Stretches the lower back and hips muscles
● Improves posture
● Aids in digestion
● Improves flexibility in the knee and hips
● Eradicates tension and pain in the lower back

If you're over 55, incorporating stretching exercises into your daily routine can significantly reduce back pain and improve mobility. The stretches mentioned in this blog effectively reduce stiffness and promote flexibility. Do not assume things when it comes to your health. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting any exercise regimen, particularly if you have an existing medical condition.

Furthermore, as older adults are more susceptible to health issues, it is crucial to have the best health insurance in India for parents. Good health insurance can provide financial security and access to quality healthcare services essential for older adults. By caring for your health, you can enjoy your golden years with peace of mind and maintain an active lifestyle.

Click HERE to learn more about the benefits of purchasing the best health insurance in India for parents.

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 onset of the pandemic initiated an active interest in maintaining health and ensuring health insurance policy renewal. However, the quarantine brought with it several other challenges. Schools, colleges, workspaces, and other leisurely spaces such as parks, gardens, and malls were closed. The average person was stuck in a difficult predicament.

Even post normalisation, the main barrier to fitness is the lack of time in an individual's busy schedule. Be it a student or a working professional, going to the gym may only sometimes be possible. Finding the time and an easy-to-access nearby gym within your budget is strenuous. The one-stop solution to all these problems is working out at home. It seems like an arduous task, but once you can take out some time for your workout during the day, these hacks will significantly help.

In this article, we will explain how an effective equipment-free workout routine is perfectly attainable!

Before we start, here's a pro tip: You can use household items for greater resistance training. Getting stronger, fitter, and leaner is achievable without regular gym equipment like dumbbells. Use standard cans instead of hand weights and your laundry basket as dumbbells. A pile of your books works too! Creatively use weighted household items to enhance the effectiveness of your workout.

Exercises to start with when working out at home

1. Body weight squats
Bodyweight squats are a staple across all home workouts, irrespective of fitness ability. Depending on the variation you engage in, you can strengthen your back, glutes, calves, core, and thighs and maintain great posture. Start with a basic squat and gradually take on advanced forms of the humble squat.

2. Push-ups
Push-ups are one of the most common yet tricky exercises. They are an all-in-one solution if you are short on time and need to get your blood pumping quickly. With variations suitable for different age groups and fitness strengths, push-ups are a universal favourite for fitness freaks. It engages the chest, arms, shoulders, and core and improves overall balance. Being one of the most effective yet challenging exercises for your upper body, it is a must-try.

3. Walking lunges
This works best with an open space, like a long corridor. It targets the midsection of your body effectively and helps maintain posture. Always keep your back straight to avoid injuries.

4. Plank
Simply the starting position for push-ups, this exercise will engage your core and abs extensively if done in 45-second intervals. Make sure to keep your back straight. A simple online search will help visualise the exercise. However, do not be fooled by its simplicity. It is challenging to maintain this position, irrespective of your current fitness abilities. Start slowly in 5-10 seconds and gradually increase your plank duration.

Once you're comfortable with the exercise, look up variations that can help engage multiple muscle groups, making for a comprehensive workout. Before participating in such intensive training, consider health insurance policy renewal to protect yourself against the medical costs of any health emergency or accident.

Lastly, but most importantly, don't forget to warm up before each workout by doing a couple of jacks, marching on the spot, and knee bends. This will prevent you from injuring yourself by pulling a muscle. However, injuries are unpredictable while doing a high-intensity workout. Therefore, health insurance policy renewal should be a top priority to avoid losing on to the financial benefits.

Click HERE to know more about health insurance policy 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.

An internal combustion engine, known as a turbo engine, employs a turbocharger to increase the air flowing into the machine. This increases the engine's power output. Utilising typically wasted exhaust gases to power the turbocharger is the fundamental idea behind an engine with turbocharging. These engines are standard in high-performance vehicles because they significantly boost power without increasing the engine's size or weight.

Remember that turbocharged cars are regarded as high-performance vehicles, which may increase insurance prices when buying online car insurance. Here are some reasons to consider a turbo engine when buying a new car.

1. Increased fuel efficiency
A turbo engine can boost performance while also enhancing fuel efficiency. It can create more power with the same amount of fuel. As a result, drivers can benefit from a more potent engine without compromising fuel efficiency.

2. Enhanced power
A turbocharger improves the air's density by compressing it before entering the engine. This makes it possible for more gasoline to be consumed and increases the power generated.

3. Smaller engine size
A turbo engine can be lighter and smaller while offering the same performance level as a typical engine. This implies that turbocharged vehicles may be smaller and more manoeuvrable, making them enjoyable to drive.

4. Superior torque
A turbo engine also has the benefit of having more torque than a normally aspirated engine. The twisting force that the engine produces is what propels the car forward. A turbo engine may accelerate instantly because it can produce more torque at lower RPMs.

5. Easily tunable
Turbo engines are more straightforward to tune than standard ones. Furthermore, performance upgrades may be easier to implement since a turbo engine is built to handle more power.
6. Improved driving experience
Driving can be more thrilling because of the engine's improved power and torque, particularly during acceleration from a stop or passing on the highway. Additionally, a turbo engine may emit a fine whine when the turbocharger is spinning up, adding to the engine's sound appeal.

7. High altitude capability
Turbo engines are particularly well-suited for high-altitude terrains. Natural aspiration engines may have difficulty generating the same amount of power as they would at sea level due to the less dense air at high elevations. In contrast, a turbo engine compresses the air to compensate for the reduced air density, enabling it to generate the same amount of power at high altitudes as it would at sea level.

8. Future-proofing
As emissions standards become more stringent, many automakers are using turbo engines to lower the size of their machines while maintaining the same level of performance. Turbocharged vehicles may be better suited to meet upcoming emissions regulations. Furthermore, if turbo engines become more popular, they may have more aftermarket support in the future, making it easier to locate components and accessories.

Car makers and enthusiasts choose turbocharged engines because of the numerous benefits they offer for automobiles. They are more powerful and torquey while consuming less fuel than conventional engines. Their enhanced acceleration allows motorists to reach high speeds conveniently. The advanced turbocharging technology has resulted in lowering emissions and making turbocharged engines a more environmentally responsible choice.

You may also research more about turbo engines to understand their working better before making any decision. Also, thoroughly study and provide precise details about your vehicle and driving history to obtain an accurate quote when applying for online car insurance for your turbocharged vehicle.

Click HERE to buy online car insurance.

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

The Indian diet has long included millet as mainstream food in many households. Because of its remarkable nutritious value, millets have recently become more well-liked in India and the rest of the world.

This family of small-seeded grasses is widely farmed worldwide. Millets come in several kinds, such as barnyard, finger, foxtail, and pearl. They are a great supplement to any diet because each type has its flavour, texture, and nutritional profile.

The desire to increase our intake of nutritious meals has grown in recent years. Millets are one such meal that has significantly risen in popularity. Since old times, millet has been a staple food for millions. They are anticipated to maintain their status as a superfood in 2023 thanks to their excellent nutritional profile and adaptability in the kitchen. Let's understand better why millets are the superfood ruling in 2023!

1. Good nutritional value
One of the main factors contributing to millets' increasing popularity is their excellent nutritious content. Protein, dietary fibre, and essential micronutrients, including iron, magnesium, and zinc, are all abundant in millet. They also include a variety of antioxidants that work to prevent cellular damage and lower the risk of developing chronic illnesses like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

2. Efficient in the kitchen
Millets are not only highly nutritious but also incredibly flexible in cooking. They are a great alternative to rice, quinoa, and other grains and may be used in various meals, from savoury to sweet. In addition to being a common component in gluten-free baking, millet flour may be used to make various baked goods, including bread and muffins.

3. Sustainable option adds to the nutritional value
However, millet's sustainability may be crucial to its rising appeal. Unlike other grains, millets require extremely little water and fertiliser to thrive, making them a sustainable option for farmers and consumers. Compared to other crops, they are more resistant to pests and diseases, making them a reliable food source in areas with erratic rainfall.

4. Influence on blood sugar levels
Millets positively affect blood sugar levels, which is one of its most important advantages. Because millets have a low glycemic index, they release sugar into the bloodstream more gradually than other carbs. This makes them a perfect food for people who have diabetes or want to control their blood sugar.

5. Affects gut health
Millets' positive effects on gut health are another advantage of consuming them. Dietary fibre, crucial for sustaining a healthy digestive system and avoiding constipation, is abundant in millet. They also contain prebiotics, which supports a healthy microbiome by feeding the good bacteria in our gut.

6. Increases immunity
Antioxidants, which help defend the body against free radicals that can harm cells, are abundant in millet and are a great source of health benefits. Also, they include several vital vitamins and minerals that support immunity. Millets can help us build a more robust immune system and defend ourselves against sickness.

There is a legitimate reason why millets are the superfood ruling in 2023! They are an excellent option for anyone trying to make healthy adjustments to their diet and way of life because they are nutrient-dense, adaptable, and sustainable.

Online health insurance companies understand how crucial making intelligent dietary choices is to fostering overall health. Many of these businesses reward clients who choose healthy lifestyles, such as eating a balanced diet. Some companies encourage customers to adopt good dietary and lifestyle changes by providing lower premiums or cash-back incentives for buying healthy items.

Click HERE to learn more about online health insurance companies and the benefits they provide.

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.

Everyone wants to amp up their homes with creative interior design these days. The most common home design trend that is making the rounds is "minimalism." People are opting for a minimal yet chic interior that speaks to all. Minimal designs are in vogue these days. From the posh houses shown in Bollywood movies to the trendy interiors of young couples, minimal design is everywhere.

Minimal design can be dicey as it requires a lot of research and careful planning to display the best to everyone who visits your house. The first and foremost step towards minimalism requires decluttering. You should keep your spaces clean and well-maintained. It helps in promoting a more calming, tranquil, and soothing vibe.

Since you spend most of your time in your living room, you need to start a minimal design idea from the living room. This article focuses on ways and means to amend the environment of your home.

Regardless of all this, a house should always be protected at all times. You should also get the best home insurance policy in India to safeguard your home against any potential problems.

How to elevate your home with minimal effort?

1. Make way for muted colours
Bright or vibrant colours can be too over-the-top and spoil the whole vibe of your home. Instead, you should use muted colours for the walls and furniture. These colours are simple, elegant, and classy. You can choose from a wide range of colours, from rose gold to midnight blue. You can also use monochrome palettes to elevate the design of your home.

2. Choose best items
The items that you choose for different rooms can have a significant effect on the eyes. You need not select extravagant or large articles for your rooms. You can go for simple yet effective items that create a strong impression. You can have just three items in a room, but they should reflect your personality and the vibe of your home. You can combine modern and rustic objects to create a minimal effect.

3. Use art pieces
Art pieces like paintings and abstracts, among others, can have a dynamic effect on the psyche of your guests. They can instantly add an aesthetic appeal to your living room, gallery, or dining area. You need to choose the right art piece for the room. It should blend with the colours present in that particular room as well.

4. Use more plants
The minimalist design features an array of plantations all around. They add a much-needed dash of green to your home. Plants will shine in your balconies, terrace, or living spaces, making them chic. This idea does not require a lot of money to fill the house with exotic indoor plants. Few planters make the area more aesthetic and vibrant with a woody and natural touch.

These are just a few tips to remember while planning your home's interior design. It is important to keep the vibe of your personality alive in your decor and designs. Minimalism is the next big thing in fostering a fresh appeal and zeal in your living spaces. In the race to ensure vibrancy, do not compromise your home's safety. Invest in the best home insurance policy in India and keep financial stress at bay.

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.

Air, a life luxury or a biological necessity, is something no one can live without! But what about the quality of air that we breathe? Is it safe? An AQI, or Air Quality Index, measures air quality around us. AQI values around 100 or less are satisfactory and do not adversely affect our health. Higher AQI values can adversely affect us in the long run, whether we are sensitive or not.

Poor air quality can result from various reasons, such as vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, pollutants, smoke, dust from roads, harmful chemicals and gases, etc. It is usually caused by the irresponsible acts of humans for their own benefit and greed.

Let us see how exposure to poor air quality adversely affects us all in the present era of rapid commercialisation and industrialisation.

1. Respiratory diseases
Poor air quality affects our lungs. It causes asthma and several other respiratory diseases, such as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and chronic bronchitis. Rapid urbanisation and rising air pollution are resulting in an increase in asthma, mainly among children.

It has been proved that people living in urban areas are more prone to respiratory diseases than those living in rural areas. This is because of higher air pollution in urban areas. Also, children who play more outdoor sports and live in high-pollution zones have a higher chance of respiratory diseases. Hence, sensitive or not, poor air quality results in causing respiratory diseases.

2. Cancer
Studies have shown that people living in high pollution zones such as roadsides, along major roadways, and near industrial zones are more susceptible to several forms of cancer. This is because of the poor air quality they are exposed to and inhale each day of their lives forcibly.

Airborne toxic substances such as chemicals used in paints, paint removers, and aerosol products can also cause cancer. Hence, workers in such factories and those residing near such factories are susceptible to cancer because of inhaling such toxic substances.

3. Cardiovascular diseases
Pollutants in the air can impair the functioning of our blood vessels. It can cause dangerous changes in blood pressure in pregnant women, causing hyperactive disorders. This results in preterm birth, low weight at the time of birth, maternal and fetal illness, and sometimes, even death.

4. Neuro problems
Studies have also shown that children's brain development is altered and impacted if they breathe PM 2.5 regularly, even at low levels. This can cause cognitive and emotional problems in them when they grow old. It slows down the brain's processing speed and causes Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms.

Exposure of women to high levels of pollutants during pregnancy increases the risk of the child being born with autism. The children may have high blood pressure problems early in their life too. Studies have also shown that exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, or nitrogen oxide during the first 8 weeks of pregnancy significantly raises the risk of having a baby with neural tube defects. Such children may end up having lower IQ scores than other children too.

Poor air quality is very dangerous for all of us and can cause irreparable damage and loss in the long run. Hence, we need to immediately work together to improve the air quality around us for the social good, whether we are sensitive to it or not.

Poor air quality is not in our immediate control. However, we can control the financial implications of diseases caused by poor air quality by opting for insurance from the best health insurance company in India for ourselves and our families. It will take care of our medical emergencies and provide us with full protection and support.

Click HERE to buy insurance from the best health 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.

Health is one of the best gifts that one can have. You need to safeguard and protect your health at all times. You might always wish to avoid diseases and adapt to a healthy lifestyle. But unfortunately, you might be diagnosed with illnesses beyond your control. One such disease refers to a rare condition.

The World Health Organization (WHO) states few people suffer from this condition. It affects one person per 1000 individuals in the world. These rare diseases are usually genetic. They are mostly innate and present right from childhood.

Rare diseases can be fatal. They can get worse if the treatment is not provided on time. Usually, treating such rare diseases is expensive and possible only at limited hospitals. Having health insurance will aid you in covering all the costs. But does it cover your rare condition? To find out, read on!

Also, remember you should always renew health insurance online on time before it expires. If you do not, you can lose access to the basic facilities of your health insurance.

What are some common rare conditions? You may find it difficult to understand if your disease comes under a rare disease or not. To help you, we have listed some of the most common rare conditions. They are as follows:

● Sickle Cell Anemia

● Gaucher Disease

● Hurler Syndrome

● Cystic Fibrosis

● Maple Syrup Urine Disease

● Haemangioma

● Tyrosinemia

● Haemophilia

● Osteopetrosis

● Wolman Disease

Are rare conditions covered under health insurance in India?
Yes, many insurance companies in India do cover rare conditions. Regardless of the disease's cause, symptoms, and status, these rare conditions are covered by health insurance companies. The treatment expenses are thoroughly covered under the insurance policies. The right policy will provide you compensation for all the medical expenses. Be it surgery costs, medicines, diagnostic tests, hospitalisation fees, therapy, and post-surgery care, among others. It also covers daycare treatments if they are valid.

However, all this can be done only if you apply and opt for the best insurance policy for yourself. They should cover all the costs. It generally depends upon your budget. Mostly these insurance covers come with a high premium to make up for the costs.

The coverage of rare health conditions can vary from one insurance company to another. You must thoroughly check the list of rare conditions before signing up for any of this insurance. Visit the websites of different companies and check for online reviews before buying. You should also check the premium before investing.

What is the waiting period for health insurance coverage for rare conditions?
Generally, you need to wait for at least 30 days for any health insurance plan to provide adequate coverage. But the scenario is completely different in terms of rare conditions. You may need to wait at least 2 years to get the benefits of the health insurance you have opted for. It is because the coverage is mostly larger than other insurance. This also means the insurance will be renewed twice before you get any compensation. You should renew health insurance online and prepare in advance to get the compensation.

You must develop a habit of getting regular full-body check-ups to detect any abnormalities in advance. Do not ignore persistent symptoms. Consult your doctor if you feel sick. Dealing with a rare condition is already tough. Without proper health insurance, the battle can be extremely difficult. You should opt for the most suitable insurance to get adequate benefits when required. This way, you can avoid financial stress and focus on your health, treatment, and recovery.

Click HERE to renew health 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.