Terror insurance to woo foreign tourists

Tour operators are tying up with insurance companies to offer coverage in case of terror attacks along with the usual travel insurance to boost the tourism industry, which witnessed a 40 per cent drop after the terror attacks.

Iqbal Mulla, managing director, Treasure Tours & Travels, Andheri, said he had discussed the matter with a few insurance companies since his firm bore huge losses post 26/11. "Terror cover has become a necessity, today. Tourists do not have to pay extra for this cover; it will be a part of the package," he said.u00a0

Rajinder Rai, president, Travel Agents Association Of India (TAAI), agreed that providing terror insurance to tourists is the need of the hour. "We will provide terror cover to foreign tourists, but have yet to finalise a deal with insurance companies," he said.

That's not all. Mulla has been sending e-mails to his clients to convince them that India is a safe destination. His company now also offers security guards for the visitors. "We are tying up with security agencies and are hiring armed security guards who will accompany the tourists. We are ready to bear the cost of the guards," said Mulla.u00a0

Insuring your travelu00a0u00a0
A travel insurance policy usually covers the insured against various eventualities while travelling abroad, including accidents, loss of checked package, passport, medical expenses and repatriation. Premium for the insurance with terror cover will cost tourists an additional Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000, depending on the package. They will be covered for amounts ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 10 lakh.

4.83 million
Number of tourists who came to India between October 2006 to October 2007

4.38 million
Number of tourists who came to India between October 2007 to October 2008

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!