In today’s uncertain world, insurance is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you are safeguarding your health, home, vehicle, or business, having the right coverage can be a game-changer. Among India’s most respected insurers, Royal Sundaram General Insurance Co. Limited stands out for its innovative offerings, trustworthy service, and widespread reach.
As India’s first private sector general insurance company licensed post-liberalisation in 2000, Royal Sundaram brought a wave of transformation into the Indian insurance market. The company has continued to innovate and evolve, offering a robust bouquet of insurance solutions for individuals, families, and enterprises.
From health and motor insurance to commercial, engineering, and marine products, Royal Sundaram’s presence across sectors is extensive and growing. Their digital-first approach, customer-centric model, and strong financial backing make them a leading name in the country’s insurance ecosystem.
Company Background
Royal Sundaram General Insurance was established in 2000, becoming the first private insurer to receive a licence from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). It started as a joint venture between Sundaram Finance, one of India’s most trusted non-banking finance companies, and Royal & SunAlliance Insurance plc (UK).
In its early years, Royal Sundaram focused on bringing international insurance best practices to India. With time, the company expanded its product portfolio, operational scale, and market reach. It was the first Indian company to offer cashless claims for health insurance and in-house motor claims settlements, setting industry benchmarks.
Key Milestones
- 2000: Licensed by IRDAI as India’s first private general insurer.
- 2002: Pioneered cashless health claims and in-house motor claim settlement.
- 2015: Sundaram Finance acquired full ownership after Royal & SunAlliance exited.
- 2017–2023: Expanded digital offerings, launched new-age policies, and strengthened its rural outreach.
Mission:
To simplify risk protection by offering need-based, affordable, and innovative insurance products with unmatched customer service.
Vision:
To be a leading general insurance company in India, known for transparency, trust, and technological advancement.
Why Choose Royal Sundaram General Insurance?
- First-Mover Advantage
Being the first private insurer in India gave Royal Sundaram a unique opportunity to shape industry norms. Its legacy of innovation still resonates in its operations today.
- Customised Insurance Solutions
Royal Sundaram offers tailor-made policies that cater to unique customer needs—from solo travellers to large corporate enterprises. Their modular approach means you pay only for what you need.
- Swift and Efficient Claim Process
Claims are handled with transparency and speed. The company has dedicated in-house teams for motor and health claims, which ensures faster assessment and settlements.
- Wide Product Portfolio
From basic motor and health to highly technical commercial, marine, and engineering insurance, the company’s range of offerings ensures 360° protection under one roof.
- Tech-Savvy and Future-Ready
Royal Sundaram has invested heavily in digital transformation. Their mobile app, AI-powered chatbots, and online claim services make insurance simple and accessible for all.
- Nationwide Presence
With over 150+ branches, a vast network of agents, and tie-ups with banks, NBFCs, and digital partners, Royal Sundaram reaches every corner of India, including rural and semi-urban belts.
- Excellent Customer Service
The insurer consistently ranks high in customer satisfaction surveys due to its responsive service, grievance redressal systems, and empathetic approach.
- Financial Stability
Backed by Sundaram Finance, Royal Sundaram maintains high capital solvency ratios and has earned a reputation for sound financial management, making them a safe choice for long-term coverage.
Product Portfolio
A. Car Insurance
Overview:
Royal Sundaram’s car insurance plans offer comprehensive protection against damage, theft, accidents, and third-party liabilities. Add-ons are available for enhanced protection.
Types of Car Insurance Plans:
- Third-Party Plan: Mandatory under law; covers damages to others.
- Own Damage Plan: For damage to your car alone.
- Comprehensive Policy: Covers both own-damage and third-party risks. Add-ons optional.
Coverage Includes:
- Damage due to accidents
- Theft or total loss
- Fire, explosion
- Natural calamities like floods or storms
- Third-party injury/property damage
Exclusions:
- Normal wear and tear
- Damage due to intoxicated driving
- Mechanical or electrical breakdown
- Commercial use of a private vehicle
- Driving without a valid licence
B. Health Insurance
Overview:
Royal Sundaram offers individual, family floater, and group health plans. Many include maternity benefits, wellness services, and pre-existing disease cover after a waiting period.
Popular Plans:
- Lifeline Plan: Suitable for individuals and families with optional maternity cover.
- Family Plus: Ideal for larger families with higher sum insured.
- Smart Cash Plan: Offers hospital cash benefits during hospitalisation.
Coverage Includes:
- In-patient hospitalisation
- Pre- and post-hospitalisation
- Day-care procedures
- Ambulance charges
- Maternity and newborn cover (in select plans)
Exclusions:
- Pre-existing diseases during waiting period
- Cosmetic and elective surgeries
- Treatment outside India
- Experimental treatments
- Injuries due to self-harm or substance abuse
C. Travel Insurance
Overview:
Royal Sundaram’s travel insurance offers safety net during domestic and international trips. Covers medical, baggage, trip cancellation, and emergency evacuation.
Plans Offered:
- Overseas Travel Policy: Designed for travellers abroad, covering medical and non-medical emergencies.
- Student Travel Plan: Long-term cover for students studying overseas.
- Domestic Travel Insurance: Ideal for families and individuals travelling within India.
Coverage Includes:
- Emergency medical care abroad
- Personal accident
- Baggage delay/loss
- Passport loss
- Trip cancellation or curtailment
Exclusions:
- Travel against medical advice
- Participation in hazardous activities
- Claims arising from pre-existing illness
- Pregnancy-related complications
- Illegal acts or intoxication-related incidents
D. Two-Wheeler Insurance
Overview:
Covers scooters and motorbikes against accidents, fire, theft, and third-party liabilities. Add-ons available for enhanced protection.
Types of Plans:
- Third-Party Plan: Legal requirement for all riders.
- Comprehensive Plan: Includes own damage and third-party cover.
- Long-Term Policy: Valid for up to 3–5 years for convenience.
Coverage Includes:
- Accidental damage
- Natural disasters
- Theft or burglary
- Third-party legal liability
- Fire or explosion
Exclusions:
- Wear and tear
- Use for commercial purposes
- Unlicensed driver
- Alcohol/drug influence
- Electrical/mechanical breakdown
E. Commercial Vehicle Insurance
Overview:
Tailored to meet the needs of transport businesses, logistics companies, and fleet owners. Ensures compliance and asset protection.
Plans Offered:
- Goods Carrying CV Insurance: For trucks and lorries.
- Passenger Carrying CV Insurance: For taxis, buses, etc.
- Fleet Insurance: Customised for business vehicle fleets.
Coverage Includes:
- Damage to commercial vehicles
- Legal liability to third parties
- Personal accident to driver
- Fire and explosion
- Natural calamities
Exclusions:
- Use beyond policy scope
- Overloading violations
- Drunk driving
- Consequential losses
- Illegal activities
F. Personal Accident Insurance
Overview:
Offers protection against accidental death, disability, and loss of income. Essential for breadwinners and professionals.
Popular Plans:
- Individual PA Cover: Protects an individual and their family.
- Group PA Cover: Designed for employers and institutions.
- Education Benefit Plans: Include financial assistance for children.
Coverage Includes:
- Accidental death
- Permanent total/partial disability
- Temporary total disability
- Hospital cash allowance
- Transportation and repatriation expenses
Exclusions:
- Suicide or self-inflicted injury
- Illness or disease
- Participation in war or rebellion
- Under influence of drugs/alcohol
- Criminal activities
G. Marine Insurance
Overview:
Covers goods in transit—by land, air, or sea. Ideal for traders, exporters, and logistics firms.
Plan Variants:
- Specific Voyage Policy – For one-time shipment.
- Open Marine Policy – For regular transit shipments.
- Annual Turnover Policy – Tailored for large enterprises.
Coverage Includes:
- Damage/loss during transit
- Fire or explosion
- Collision or overturning
- Theft or pilferage
- Weather-related damage
Exclusions:
- Improper packing
- Inherent vice in goods
- War or nuclear risks
- Delays or indirect losses
- Wilful negligence
H. Burglary Insurance
Overview:
Protects homes, offices, and shops against theft and burglary. Offers financial cover for stolen items and property damage.
Types of Plans:
- Home Burglary Insurance: Covers valuables and contents.
- Business Burglary Insurance: For commercial spaces.
- All-Risk Plans: Broader coverage, including attempted burglary.
Coverage Includes:
- Loss due to forced entry
- Damage to locks and doors
- Theft of cash or stock
- Protection during holidays
- Employee dishonesty (optional add-on)
Exclusions:
- Insider theft
- No signs of forced entry
- Loss due to negligence
- War and riots
- Stock-taking discrepancies
I. Engineering Insurance
Overview:
Meant for builders, contractors, and manufacturers. Covers risks during construction, installation, and operation of equipment.
Key Plans:
- Contractors’ All Risk (CAR): Covers building sites and civil works.
- Erection All Risk (EAR): For equipment installation.
- Machinery Breakdown: For manufacturing machinery and plant.
Coverage Includes:
- Accidental physical damage
- Fire and explosion
- Faulty workmanship
- Electrical breakdown
- Damage during construction
Exclusions:
- Gradual wear and tear
- Poor maintenance
- Design defects
- Damage due to war
- Intentional negligence
Claims Process
Royal Sundaram’s claims process is efficient, tech-supported, and customer-friendly. Claims can be registered online or via call centres.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Inform the insurer immediately
- Register claim via app/website/helpline
- Submit documents and evidence
- Surveyor inspection (if required)
- Claim approval and payout
Renewal Process
Policies can be renewed online within minutes. Renewal reminders are sent to policyholders via SMS and email.
Steps to Renew:
- Visit website or mobile app
- Enter policy details
- Review coverage and make changes if needed
- Pay renewal premium
- Receive updated policy instantly
Distribution Network
Royal Sundaram reaches customers via a multi-channel approach:
- Branch Offices: Across 150+ locations
- Brokers and Agents: Extensive offline partner network
- Bancassurance Partners: Tied with leading banks
- Digital Portals and Apps: Seamless online experience
Community Engagement:
- Insurance literacy drives
- Rural outreach programmes
- Workshops on financial wellness
Green Initiatives:
- Paperless onboarding
- Digitised claims
- Carbon footprint tracking
Wellness Campaigns:
- Health screening camps
- Mental health awareness
- COVID-19 vaccination partnerships
Awards and Recognitions
Royal Sundaram has been honoured with:
- Customer Service Excellence Award
- Best Motor Claims Settlement Award
- ISO Certification for Quality Management
- Digital Innovation in General Insurance
Final Thoughts:
Royal Sundaram General Insurance Co. Limited stands as a pillar of trust, innovation, and reliability. From individual protection plans to complex commercial policies, the company offers a wide range of solutions suited to modern India’s needs.
With a focus on customer-first service, fast claims, digital convenience, and strong financial backing, Royal Sundaram has become a preferred choice for millions across the country.
If you are looking for a general insurance provider that’s experienced, ethical, and technologically ahead—Royal Sundaram deserves your attention.
