GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Establishing a business can be challenging but not impossible. Many thoughts may cross your mind when you consider starting a business. Whenever you start a business, you need to take small steps to fuel your business growth. A small-scale business can take flight later and become a lucrative and flourishing venture. It is also a given that you will encounter many problems during your startup. These issues are generic and are experienced by every business. Hence, you must plan accordingly and prepare to face these challenges.

If you're a new entrepreneur looking forward to mapping the roadmap of your startup, then this article is for you. We have carefully curated a list of the common obstacles you may face in scaling your business. You should also know about public liability insurance prices before establishing your business.

We have mentioned the everyday problems of a business owner below.

1. Raising capital:
Every business needs enough capital to get started. It is the first prerequisite before a company is established. Putting initial investment can be overwhelming as you require it to run your business. It can put a lot of pressure on you as the owner. Hence, it is recommended that owners work a side job to generate capital for the business.

2. Dealing with work fatigue:
When establishing a business, you must devote more hours than others. The company becomes your sole responsibility; you still hustle even when you feel tired. Hence, you continue to give in extra work hours even when physically and mentally exhausted. This can lead to rash and unhealthy decisions that you can take in an unstable frame of mind.
It is recommended to take frequent breaks. You need to find a balance between your work and personal life. Try to incorporate the 8+8+8 rule (8 hours of dedicated hard work + 8 hours of proper sleep + 8 hours of personal time for family, friends, hobbies, and health).

3. Time management:
As a startup owner, you must manage most tasks throughout the day. This means that filing the paperwork, answering calls, attending meetings, and also employing others will be done by you. This can put you in a real-time crunch. You will fail to meet deadlines. You should always work out proper time and task management before starting your day.

4. Finding the right people:
When a small business is established, you must find skilled and trustworthy staff. Not only should they be qualified, but they should have the potential to adapt to the dynamic environment and evolve as their role expands. It can be a big challenge as most skilled people work in established companies. You must identify and sort through multiple applications before finding the ones you seek. It can take a lot of time and effort. Bring only those people on-board who have the same vision as you do.

5. Establishing a customer base:
Your small business will be unable to take off without the involvement of customers. It is their demand that helps set wings for your vision. However, it is a daunting task in itself. Customers might not know about you as you are not a big name in the market yet. They may also not trust you with their needs. It is advised to create effective brand awareness to attract the ideal customers.

These are some of the many obstacles small business owners face while setting up their enterprises. Entrepreneurship is a challenging journey that requires significant efforts but provides excellent returns. You need to be patient and resilient until your company takes off. We also recommend researching public liability insurance prices in advance for your business to protect your business from any lawsuits or claims made by employees or third-party.

Click HERE to buy public liability 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.

Certain privileges become accessible only after attaining a specific age. In India, the legal age to drive motorised vehicles is 18 years. If you have recently become eligible to drive legally, congratulations! Driving is one of the first activities that excite youngsters.

However, you must be extremely careful with your first vehicle. Reckless driving puts your life, car, and third parties in danger, so you must always practise safe driving and purchase the best car insurance in India to safeguard your finances. Regular car servicing is crucial to prevent frequent breakdowns and costly repairs.

Here are some essential car maintenance tips that all teenagers must follow if they have already obtained a driving licence.

1. Keep the manual accessible:
Four-wheelers are complex vehicles with several parts that require specific maintenance. Unless you are an automobile professional, it is unlikely to know every part's specifications. Do not shy away from using the manufacturer's manual as a guide to understanding details about your car. You can also find solutions to common problems like changing flat tyres and tips to jumpstart your car.

2. Don't neglect the battery:
An often overlooked auto part, your car's battery can leave you stranded when neglected. Dragging engine sounds are an early sign of a drained battery. Ensure to pay attention to such signs and turn off the engine, radio, cabin lights, etc., when not in use to prevent battery drain.
While most batteries claim to have a life of up to 6 years, they usually wear out within three years, depending on use, making it necessary to keep a check and replace it when you notice early signs of voltage drops.

3. Replace your windshield wipers:
Visibility is crucial to driving safely. Before turning on the ignition, ensure that your side and rear mirrors and windshield are clean. This ensures proper visibility of the incoming and surrounding cars to make appropriate judgements on the road.
Wiper blades enable the windshield to stay obstruction-free. Since they are made of rubber, they may wear out and leave streaks on the glass, making it challenging to drive confidently. Therefore, ensure that you periodically inspect the state of your windshield wipers and replace them when worn.

4. Pay attention to engine oil:
It is essential to pay attention to the heart of your car- the engine. The engine's functioning depends on the seamless working of several parts facilitated by the lubrication provided by the engine oil. If you do not replace your engine oil periodically as per the manual, excessive friction and contaminated oil may damage the engine parts. Leave this task to professionals to identify any issues simultaneously.

5. Check your tyres:
Irrespective of terrain, maintenance of tyres is an essential aspect of car upkeep that you must consider. It is critical to do so to ensure proper gripping and weight balancing to prevent accidents. Ensure you periodically rotate your tyres and check the air pressure, tread depth, and wheel alignment.

6. Replace your pedals:
The ABCs in a car- Accelerator, Brake, and Clutch are primary necessities that must function properly to ensure a smooth driving experience. However, frequent use leads to the wearing out of the ceramic pads over the metal discs that engage the systems. Therefore, keep track of the pedals' sound and thickness when your car is inspected to identify signs that the pedals require replacement.

As beginners, it is challenging to keep track of every minute detail. However, with time and relying on expert guidance and the car manual, it is easy to maintain your car's prime state. Ensure you regularly service your vehicle and purchase the best car insurance in India to take your mind off the safety aspect and allow you to focus on driving safely!

Click HERE to buy best car 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.

Nothing represents India better than big fat Indian weddings! Vibrant colours and never-ending streams of ceremonies are giveaway signs of a wedding-in-planning. However, while guests only see the wedding as well-planned, the staggering costs of planning a wedding in India have only grown over the years.

A wedding is a significant decision that impacts your finances. Irrespective of the size of the event, it involves extensive planning to design and execute that one special big day. Selecting a wedding destination is one of the first steps to facilitate the process. It is best to contact a general insurance company and take out a policy that covers potential financial losses against any substantial risks.

Choosing a perfect venue may seem like a challenging task. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can find the destination of your dreams without any hassle and future regrets!

1. Organise your requirements:
It is easy to get overwhelmed and do things out of order as they please you. However, without careful consideration, you are bound to make regretful choices. Before looking for destinations, make a physical list of some points to remember.
This includes the estimates of guests, the budget set aside for the venue, the kind of location you expect, and the sequence of activities and ceremonies. This will help you consider the site while keeping the facts in mind, making it easy to imagine whether or not the choice is right for you.

2. Pictures are only references:
Starting your hunt for the perfect venue a few weeks or months before the date is an absolute nightmare waiting to happen. However, if you choose purely based on images on the internet, the result is bound to be a disaster. Make sure you check the venue in person to ensure that it satisfies your criteria.
Booking in advance is a recommended step that allows you to avail of discounts and avoid settling for the substandard alternate after finding out that your ideal destination has already been booked.
If cancellations and uncertainties hold you from booking your venue in advance, consider discussing wedding insurance with your general insurance company that compensates in the event of cancellation.

3. Consider the distance:
While it is your wedding, you must consider the travel to the venue to ensure that it is convenient for your guests. Ease of accessibility and nearby or on-site accommodations are vital factors when choosing the wedding venue.

4. Check the venue rules:
Venues often have non-alterable rules. Carefully consider their policies before committing to the site, only to discover that the location does not allow any of your planned activities. If it is non-negotiable for you, ask for their adjustment. In case it is approved, ensure that you have it in writing as proof in the future.

5. Don't hold back your queries:
Asking too many questions may feel like a nuisance but clarifying everything is best rather than being confused. Do not shy away from asking all about the duration that the venue is let out for, accessibility, amenities, and other facilities. Make them aware of any special requests at the earliest to ensure that the organisers have enough time to accommodate your needs.

6. Consider the weather:
An outdoor wedding may be your dream, but it may not be feasible during the monsoon. Ensure that you consider the forecasted weather conditions' compatibility with your venue. Indoor weddings in elegant halls are highly preferred backup options that save the day.

Most importantly, avoid individually taking the responsibility of choosing the venue. It is ideal to delegate the task to a few close friends and family members who can help you find the perfect destination that satisfies you and is practical. You may even decide to hire professional wedding planners to make the occasion an exceptional one. It is also ideal to purchase a prudent cover from a general insurance company while planning your big day.

Click HERE to buy insurance from the best general insurance company.

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.

Electric two-wheelers are one of the fastest-growing segments in the Indian automobile industry. Manufacturers are putting effort into increasing efficiency, power and affordable pricing to attract Indian consumers. What makes electric two-wheelers a popular choice in India? Let us go through some of the facts to understand it better.

1. Zero emission:
Most of the big metropolitan cities, as well as smaller Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, are reeling under the problem of air pollution. The fast pace of growth of industries, along with the number of vehicles plying on the roads, is putting tremendous pressure on the Air Quality Index (AQI). Electric two-wheelers have become a big saviour amidst the gloomy air pollution scene. They produce zero-emission and have no contribution to environmental pollution.

2. Silent operation:
Electric two-wheelers hardly make any sound, unlike other two-wheelers that make heavy and disturbing noise while running. Hence, they offer complete peace of mind and are a pleasure to ride.

3. Pocket-friendly:
Electric two-wheelers have a very low running cost. This is one of their most important and unique benefits that regular two-wheelers can never match. Since they run on batteries, we do not need to fuel them with petrol. The constantly increasing fuel prices rarely bother electric two-wheelers owners.
They do require charging, but that cost is also minimal. A regular electric two-wheeler usually consumes around 10-15 units of electricity to charge fully. We can drive upwards of 100 kilometres on a full charge. Hence, in layman’s terms, an electric two-wheeler will cost only about Re.1 per kilometre.
On the other hand, the running cost of your two-wheeler, which operates on petrol, is upwards of Rs.3/- per kilometre. Unarguably, the running cost of electric two-wheelers is very low compared to conventional two-wheelers.

4. Easy manoeuvrability:
Electric two-wheelers are very lightweight since they do not have heavy engines. Their heart is just the lightweight motor. Due to this reason, they are excellent at handling and manoeuvre in daily city traffic.
They are comfortable and easy to handle, even for girls and kids. Nowadays, bikes are also available in the electric format. They are powerful with good pick-up and speed. This makes them a very popular choice among both genders and all age groups.

5. Low maintenance cost:
Conventional two-wheelers require service once every 3-4 months. We need to change their engine oil with each service. Also, some or the other components need replacement every time we get our two wheeler serviced.
This is not the case with an electric two-wheeler. As they require minimal servicing, their daily maintenance cost doesn't upset the owner. Also, they hardly need replacements of components, which further lowers their maintenance cost.

Electric two-wheelers are the buzz of the moment, and every automobile manufacturer wants to enter this segment. They have more advantages than disadvantages over conventional two-wheelers, making them a popular choice.

It's time to go the modern way in the case of two-wheeler insurance as well. Buying a two wheeler insurance online India is the current trend. It gives you the ease of choice amongst hundreds of available insurance options without stepping out from the comfort of your home or office. It is fast, reliable, and 100% secure.

Click HERE to buy two wheeler 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.

Ageing is an inevitable part of life. Despite scientific advancements and multiple procedures that help reduce the visible effects of growing old, there is no way to prevent it. While making oneself appear younger is an option with costly and extensive surgeries, the internal effects of ageing cannot be reduced or eliminated. However, with the help of scientifically proven natural remedies, you can significantly slow the signs of ageing.

One such activity is sunshine exposure. Often taken for granted due to busy schedules consisting of being cooped up in dark rooms under artificial lighting, the benefits of getting some sunshine are unparalleled. Especially for senior citizens, who are susceptible to pain and diseases, getting sunlight daily is known to have immense benefits.

The pleasant environment and warmth of the sun make for the perfect conditions to go for a short morning walk. You cannot derive the physical and mental benefits of soaking in the sunshine from any other source.

If you are still sceptical about taking in your daily dose of sun, here are some of its benefits for your health.

1. Vitamin D:
Vitamin D is a unique vitamin not naturally produced by our bodies. It is vital in facilitating bone growth and strengthening the skeletal system. Therefore, we are dependent on external sources to get it. It can be sourced from sunlight exposure or consuming Vitamin D supplements prescribed by medical professionals in severe deficiency cases. However, to prevent such deficiency, it is necessary to expose yourself to sunlight daily for 10-15 minutes.

2. Serotonin release:
Sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, a hormone that boosts your mood. While serotonin is also released by engaging in activities you enjoy, a quick walk in the sunlight can provide the same results in a short duration and helps keep mental illnesses at bay and prevent mood swings. It also helps start the day with positivity.

3. Lower blood pressure:
Research conducted at the University of Edinburgh provided conclusive evidence that nitric oxide is released into the bloodstream when sunlight touches the skin. The oxide pushes blood vessels to widen and helps reduce blood pressure.

4. Improved brain functioning:
The cognitive function of the brain begins to reduce with age. A casual stroll in the sunshine can help your parents or elders in the family retain and improve their memory and reduce the risk of illnesses while ensuring physical activity. In such cases, it is also advisable to buy health insurance in India for parents.

5. Improved sleep quality:
The sun plays an essential role in signalling to your brain that it is time to rest at night by producing melatonin which induces sleep. This helps maintain your natural body clock and derive adequate rest, which ensures rejuvenation to take on the tasks for the next day.

6. Facilitates growth in children:
Applicable for infants and children, studies have shown that the amount of sunshine exposure directly impacts the child's height. It also helps boost the child's immune system and ensure physical and mental well-being.

While there are several benefits of daily walks in the sunshine, it is necessary to maintain a balance. It is highly beneficial for people of all ages, having particular benefits for the young and the elderly, as we discussed in the blog. However, you must always consider the risk of skin cancer, and exposure should not exceed 30 minutes a day under any circumstances (preferably in the morning).

We recommend purchasing insurance to protect you and your loved ones against unexpected health situations. Buy the best health insurance in India for parents, your spouse, children and direct dependents and keep yourself away from financial distress during emergencies.

Click HERE to buy 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.

Quality sleep immensely affects your daily life and good health. Your sleep cycle determines everything from your mind to your physical well-being. If you lack adequate sleep, you can experience stress, fatigue, irritability, anxiety, headaches, and even depression. Things can sometimes get out of hand for you.

Lack of sleep can affect your personal as well as professional life. In a fast-paced world, getting sound sleep has become challenging. Adhering to a sleep schedule that works for you is even more difficult. There are many ways to get your sleep cycle back. From playing serene music to meditation and reading, anything can work out for you.

One such method is: sleep syncing. It is a comparatively new concept that has come in. It has been derived from sleep experts who have studied sleep patterns for decades now. With sleep syncing, you regain your regular sleep cycle. Let's learn more about sleep syncing here:

What is sleep syncing?
Sleep syncing refers to keeping your circadian cycle in check. The circadian cycle is the sleep-wake cycle of your body that takes place across the span of 24 hours. It is affected by various factors, including hormones like melatonin and even sunlight.

With sleep syncing, you give your sleep-wake cycle a gentle nudge. This way, your body will sleep when it's meant to. It will ensure better sleep, more energy, a good mood, and a healthy body.

How to practice sleep syncing?
There are many ways and means by which you can practice sleep syncing. They are as follows:

1. Fix a schedule
Having a timetable is necessary. You must set a designated time for sleeping and waking up daily. You can then align all your activities around the same. You can use a sleep tracker to find out your sleep length initially. Once you are sure, work out a schedule and set your alarm accordingly. You can also set a bedtime routine. It can include skincare, reading, meditation, light yoga, or even journaling.

2. Get sunlight
Sunlight plays a pivotal role in establishing your circadian cycle. When you wake up, ensure you get enough sunlight for your body. You can gently walk or stand in the sunlight after waking up. Pulling off your curtains and waking up to sunlight can be effective too. It helps fix your sleep cycle and even boost productivity.

3. Consume less caffeine
Do not incorporate a lot of caffeine in your daily routine. Caffeine can throw you off your circadian cycle and cause immense harm. Although caffeine effectively boosts energy, it can keep you up at night. If you consume tea or coffee late in the evening, it will keep you awake till late. You need to switch to decaf if you are addicted to caffeine.

4. Avoid gadgets
If you use your phone or laptop excessively before bed, you can find it difficult to fall asleep. It can disturb the production of sleep hormones in your body. It is advised not to use phones an hour before your sleep time.

Sleep syncing is one of the most effective tools to fix your sleep cycle. It has been proven effective for many people across the globe. You can try the aforementioned pointers for yourself to get the desired results. Also, remember you should always have online health insurance to keep you covered.

Click HERE to buy online health 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 healthcare industry is one of the biggest sectors of the Indian economy in terms of revenue and employment. Investment in the public, as well as the private healthcare sector, has shot up multiple times in recent years. This sector comprises hospitals, medical instruments, research and development, outsourcing, and health insurance.

Let us look at the possible future of the Indian healthcare system, industry growth, and the major challenges.

Opportunities
Let us first assess the opportunities in the Indian healthcare industry.

1. Excellent growth rate
The Indian healthcare industry is witnessing a buoyant growth rate in recent years because of the increase in consciousness of the Indians towards health upkeep, especially after Covid-19. Also, a rise in income levels, increasing health awareness, and growing government support in the healthcare sector contribute to a double-digit growth rate. Since 2016, the Indian healthcare industry has grown at a staggering CAGR of 22%.

2. Increase in health insurance
Health insurance in India has seen an increased penetration in recent years. After the advent of Covid -19, even the population living in Tier-II and Tier-III cities, as well as rural areas, are rushing to get health insurance policies. More youngsters are joining the workforce, boosting their disposable income and spending power. This has helped in increasing healthcare spending and is only set to grow at a higher pace.

This presents tremendous opportunities to existing health insurance companies and new entrants. They can develop new and unique policies to capture the untapped health insurance market.

3. Self-sufficiency and export
The Indian pharmaceuticals sector has also witnessed a tremendous pace in research and development and production of crucial medicines. India has accomplished administering over 170 crores of Covid-19 vaccine doses. Moreover, it also exported over 5 crore vaccine doses to around 70 countries.

India has made a mark for itself by achieving this feat in so little time. Vast opportunities lay ahead for Indian pharmaceutical manufacturers to take their production to global levels and cater to the world’s growing demand for medicines and healthcare equipment.

Make in India is becoming a reality. Indian companies have also started manufacturing CT scanners, ultrasound machines, ventilators, and MRI machines, which were fully imported until some time ago.

4. FDI and PPP model
India is inviting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to develop hospitals, healthcare centres, and medical equipment manufacturing. The foreign community is witnessing India as the next big investment destination because of the mix of skills and cost-efficiency of the Indian workforce.

To boost this sector, the government is also actively launching programs such as credit incentives, aggressive expansion through the PPP model (Public-Private partnership), setting up of new medical colleges, etc.

Challenges
Let us now look at some of the challenges in the Indian healthcare industry.

1. Doctor-patient ratio
A wide gap still exists in the doctor-patient ratio in India. Only 01 doctor is available for every 834 patients in India, which poses a huge challenge in providing medical services in a cost-effective manner.

2. Innovation and implementation of AI
The Indian healthcare industry is in a nascent stage. Innovating and producing high-quality medical equipment and medicines in India at low prices is a challenge. Also, AI-based software in various processes must be implemented as fast as possible as in other developed nations. Covering smaller cities and towns with such software can be a daunting task.

The future of the Indian healthcare industry is bright and shining, with more opportunities in view than challenges. Much is still needed to bring world-class medical services and products to India, especially in smaller cities and towns.

The Indian healthcare industry is growing rapidly, which is excellent news for health insurance as well. With increased awareness of health and fitness in the Indian population after the pandemic, health insurance in India is going through its golden phase. It is penetrating its reach across the length and breadth of the country at a rapid pace, providing ample opportunities for growth in the sector.

Click HERE to buy health 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.