Dibrugarh University BCOM 2nd SEM FYUGP
Principles of Insurance Paper 2024
COMMERCE (Minor)
Full Marks: 80
Pass Marks: 24
Time: 3 hours
Paper: MINBNI2 (Principles of Insurance)
The figures in the margin indicate full marks for the questions
1. Write True or False of the following: 1x5=5
(a) The main purpose of reinsurance is to maximize profits for insurers.
Answer: False
(b) One of the characteristics of non-life insurance policy is limited policy duration.
Answer: True
(c) The main function of insurance regulators is to fix insurance premium rates.
Answer: False
(d) Group insurance has higher coverage limit.
Answer: False
(e) Whole life policy provides coverage for the entire life of the insured.
Answer: True
2. Fill in the blanks of the following: 1x3=3
(a) _______ principle of insurance states that the insured must have a financial interest in the subject matter of the insurance.
Answer: Insurable interest
(b) An insurance contract defining its terms and conditions is known as _______.
Answer: Policy document
(c) Life Insurance Corporation of India was established in the year _______.
Answer: 1956
3. Write short notes on any four of the following: 4x4=16
(a) Rider Premium Rider premium refers to the additional premium paid by a policyholder to include extra coverage or benefits in a basic life insurance policy. A rider is an optional add-on that enhances the protection offered by the base policy. Common types of riders include accidental death benefit rider, critical illness rider, waiver of premium rider, and disability income rider. The rider premium is charged separately and is added to the regular premium of the base policy. While riders increase the overall cost of the policy, they provide broader financial security against specific risks that the base policy may not cover adequately.
(b) Surrender Value Surrender value is the amount a policyholder receives from the insurance company when they voluntarily terminate a life insurance policy before its maturity. It is payable only after the policy has acquired a paid-up value, which usually happens after premiums have been paid for at least two to three consecutive years. The surrender value is calculated as a percentage of the total premiums paid (excluding taxes and rider premiums) and may include any accrued bonuses. Once the policy is surrendered, all benefits under it cease. The surrender value provides an exit option to policyholders but is generally lower than the total premiums paid.
(c) Insurance Life Cycle The insurance life cycle refers to the various stages an insurance policy goes through from the time it is purchased until it ends. The stages typically include:
Proposal Stage – The insured applies for a policy by submitting a proposal form.
Underwriting and Policy Issuance – The insurer assesses the risk and issues the policy.
Premium Payment Period – The policyholder regularly pays premiums as per the terms.
Policy Term/Benefit Period – The policy remains active, and coverage continues.
Claim Settlement or Maturity – The policy ends with a death claim or maturity payout.
Termination or Lapse – The policy may terminate early due to surrender or non-payment.
This cycle helps understand the full duration and obligations under a policy.
(d) Benefits of Annuity An annuity provides a series of regular payments to an individual, typically after retirement. The key benefits include:
Guaranteed Income – Annuities offer a stable and predictable income stream for a specified period or for life.
Retirement Security – They ensure financial independence during retirement, even when regular income sources stop.
Tax Benefits – Contributions to certain types of annuities may qualify for tax deductions, and growth within the annuity is tax-deferred.
Customizable Options – Various types of annuities (immediate, deferred, fixed, variable) suit different financial goals and risk appetites.
Annuities are thus a popular tool for long-term financial planning and post-retirement stability.
(e) Principles of Utmost Good Faith The principle of utmost good faith (uberrima fides) is a fundamental concept in insurance, requiring both the insurer and the insured to act honestly and disclose all material facts. The insured must reveal all relevant information, such as medical history or past claims, that can affect the insurer’s decision to provide coverage. Similarly, the insurer must clearly explain the terms, exclusions, and benefits of the policy. Failure to uphold this principle can lead to claim rejection or policy cancellation. This principle builds trust and ensures fairness in insurance contracts.
(f) Unit-linked Insurance Policy (ULIP) A Unit-linked Insurance Policy (ULIP) is a hybrid financial product that combines insurance protection with investment opportunities. Part of the premium goes toward life cover, while the rest is invested in equity, debt, or balanced funds as chosen by the policyholder. ULIPs offer flexibility in fund switching, transparency in charges, and the potential for wealth creation over the long term. The value of a ULIP depends on the market performance of the chosen funds. ULIPs also provide tax benefits under Section 80C and Section 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act. They are ideal for investors seeking both protection and growth.
4. (a) What is risk management by individuals? Discuss about the different classes of insurance in detail. (4+10=14 Marks)
Answer: Risk management by individuals refers to the process by which a person identifies, assesses, and takes steps to reduce or eliminate the potential impact of various types of risks that may affect their life, health, property, or financial well-being. The main objective is to minimize the adverse effects of unforeseen events such as illness, death, accidents, or loss of property.
Individuals manage risks in several ways, such as:
i) Avoiding unnecessary risks.
ii) Reducing risks by taking preventive actions (e.g., medical checkups, safety measures).
iii) Transferring risks through insurance policies.
iv) Retaining manageable risks and planning for emergencies.
One of the most effective tools for risk management is insurance, which allows individuals to transfer the financial burden of certain risks to an insurance company in exchange for a premium.
Different Classes of Insurance: Insurance is broadly classified into two major categories: Life Insurance and General Insurance. Each of these has various sub-types depending on the risk being covered.
A) Life Insurance: This type of insurance provides financial protection against the risk of death or survival for a specified period. It is a long-term contract between the insurer and the policyholder.
i) Term Life Insurance: Provides coverage for a specific period. If the insured dies within the term, the nominee gets the sum assured. No benefit is paid if the policyholder survives the term.
ii) Whole Life Insurance: Covers the entire lifetime of the insured. The death benefit is paid to the nominee upon the death of the policyholder.
iii) Endowment Plans: Combines life insurance with savings. A lump sum is paid either on death or upon maturity.
iv) Money-Back Plans: These plans provide periodic returns during the policy term along with the death benefit.
v) Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs): A combination of investment and insurance. A part of the premium is invested in equity or debt funds, and the rest provides life cover.
vi) Annuity Plans or Pension Plans: These provide regular income after retirement, either for life or a fixed period.
B) General Insurance: This refers to all types of insurance other than life insurance. It covers financial losses arising out of various risks and is usually for a shorter duration (typically one year).
i) Health Insurance: Covers medical expenses due to illness or accidents. Examples include individual health plans, family floater policies, and critical illness plans.
ii) Motor Insurance: Mandatory for all vehicles in India. It includes third-party insurance (compulsory) and comprehensive insurance (includes own damage).
iii) Home Insurance: Provides protection against damage to one’s house due to fire, theft, natural disasters, etc.
iv) Travel Insurance: Covers financial losses while traveling, such as trip cancellations, loss of baggage, or medical emergencies abroad.
v) Personal Accident Insurance: Provides compensation in case of death, disability, or injury due to an accident.
vi) Fire Insurance: Covers damage to property or goods due to fire and related perils.
vii) Marine Insurance: Covers loss or damage to ships, cargo, and other transport during transit over water.
viii) Commercial or Business Insurance: Includes various policies like liability insurance, property insurance, and group health insurance for businesses.
In conclusion, risk management through insurance is an essential part of financial planning. Understanding the different classes of insurance enables individuals to select the right kind of protection based on their personal and financial needs.
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4. (b) Discuss about the role played by insurance in the economic development of our country. (14 Marks)
Answer: Insurance plays a vital role in the economic development of a country by providing financial stability, promoting investment, and protecting individuals and businesses from unexpected losses. It acts as a catalyst for growth by facilitating risk management, capital formation, and long-term investment.
Key Roles of Insurance in Economic Development:
i) Risk Transfer and Financial Security: Insurance allows individuals and businesses to transfer financial risks to insurers, thereby promoting confidence in undertaking economic activities without fear of loss.
ii) Capital Formation: The premiums collected by insurance companies are pooled and invested in various long-term infrastructure and industrial projects. This helps in building capital for economic development.
iii) Employment Generation: The insurance sector directly and indirectly provides employment to millions through insurance agencies, customer service, underwriting, claims management, and IT services.
iv) Development of Infrastructure: Insurance companies invest heavily in infrastructure sectors like roads, railways, ports, and power, which are essential for economic growth.
v) Promotion of Trade and Commerce: Insurance promotes trade by covering goods in transit, export credit risks, marine and aviation losses. This helps in smooth functioning of national and international trade.
vi) Encouragement to Savings and Investments: Life insurance, especially endowment and pension plans, encourages individuals to save regularly and invest for the future. This leads to capital formation and promotes economic stability.
vii) Stabilization of Financial System: By covering catastrophic risks and supporting disaster recovery, insurance contributes to the stability of the financial system and prevents economic disruptions.
viii) Support to Agricultural Sector: Crop insurance helps farmers manage risks related to droughts, floods, and other natural disasters, thereby promoting agricultural development and food security.
ix) Social Welfare and Poverty Reduction: Insurance helps reduce poverty by offering financial protection to the poor, especially through government-backed schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) and Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY).
x) Boosting Consumer Confidence: Availability of insurance instills confidence in consumers to take loans, buy property, or invest in businesses, knowing that they are protected against potential losses.
xi) Disaster Risk Management: Insurance companies play a crucial role in disaster mitigation by assessing risks and supporting rehabilitation after natural calamities, thus aiding economic recovery.
xii) Contribution to GDP: The insurance sector contributes significantly to the national income and forms a part of the services sector which is a major contributor to India’s GDP.
In summary, insurance is a fundamental pillar of economic development. It not only protects individuals and enterprises from financial shocks but also mobilizes resources, generates employment, and supports infrastructure and social welfare schemes. Its role in building a resilient and inclusive economy is indispensable.
5. (a) Discuss about different types of insurance personnel associated with commercial insurance. (14 Marks)
Answer: The commercial insurance sector involves various specialized personnel who play important roles in the functioning, distribution, and management of insurance services. These professionals ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction by handling underwriting, risk assessment, claims processing, marketing, and more.
Types of Insurance Personnel in Commercial Insurance:
i) Underwriters: Underwriters assess the risk of insuring a business or commercial asset and decide the terms and conditions of the insurance contract. They analyze various risk factors, set premium rates, and determine the extent of coverage.
ii) Insurance Agents: Agents are licensed individuals or entities who sell insurance policies to clients on behalf of insurance companies. They are the primary link between insurers and customers and help clients choose appropriate commercial insurance policies.
iii) Insurance Brokers: Brokers are independent professionals who represent the client rather than the insurance company. They offer a range of policy options from different insurers and provide expert advice tailored to the client’s commercial needs.
iv) Claims Adjusters (Loss Assessors): These professionals investigate insurance claims to determine the extent of the insurer’s liability. They assess the damages, verify the legitimacy of the claim, and facilitate settlements between the insurer and insured.
v) Risk Managers: Risk managers help commercial clients identify, evaluate, and mitigate potential risks to their businesses. They work closely with insurance companies to design customized risk management solutions.
vi) Actuaries: Actuaries use statistical data to evaluate financial risks and calculate insurance premiums, reserves, and other financial projections. They play a vital role in product pricing and ensuring the long-term financial viability of insurance products.
vii) Surveyors: Surveyors conduct site inspections and surveys to assess the condition and value of the property or asset being insured. Their reports help underwriters make informed decisions.
viii) Reinsurance Specialists: They deal with reinsurance, which is insurance for insurance companies. Reinsurance specialists help distribute large or complex risks across multiple insurers to protect the primary insurer from major losses.
ix) Insurance Inspectors: They ensure that businesses comply with insurance regulations and safety standards. They may inspect commercial properties to evaluate the risk exposure.
x) Customer Service Executives: These professionals assist clients with policy information, renewal, claim status, and other queries. They are crucial in maintaining good customer relationships in commercial insurance.
xi) Product Development Managers: They are responsible for designing and developing commercial insurance products that meet market needs. They also update existing products in response to regulatory changes or market demands.
xii) Legal Advisors: Legal advisors handle legal aspects of commercial insurance, including drafting policies, dealing with litigation, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
xiii) Marketing and Sales Executives: They promote insurance products, conduct market research, and build relationships with potential business clients.
xiv) Third Party Administrators (TPAs): Though more common in health insurance, TPAs may also be involved in claims processing and servicing in certain commercial insurance arrangements.
In conclusion, commercial insurance involves a diverse range of professionals who collaborate to assess risks, sell policies, settle claims, and maintain regulatory standards. Each of these roles is critical for ensuring that businesses receive comprehensive risk protection and reliable service.
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(b) Write a detailed note on the evolution and growth of Life Insurance Organizations in India. (14 Marks)
Answer: The life insurance sector in India has a long history that reflects the country’s economic and social transformation. Over the years, it has evolved from a fragmented and unregulated system into a structured, regulated, and competitive industry. The evolution of life insurance in India can be divided into four main phases:
1. Pre-Independence Era (Before 1947): The foundation of life insurance in India was laid during British rule.
i) The first life insurance company in India was the Oriental Life Insurance Company, established in 1818 in Calcutta by Europeans.
ii) This was followed by the Bombay Mutual Life Assurance Society in 1870, which was the first Indian-owned life insurance company.
iii) Several other companies emerged in the following decades, but the sector was largely unregulated and many firms were mismanaged or fraudulent.
iv) The Insurance Act of 1938 was the first comprehensive legislation to regulate insurance in India, introducing provisions for registration, investment, and supervision.
2. Post-Independence and Nationalization Phase (1947–1999):
After independence, the government took steps to protect policyholders and consolidate the sector.
i) In 1956, the Indian government nationalized the life insurance sector and established the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) by merging over 245 private insurers.
ii) LIC was given a monopoly over life insurance in the country and played a major role in spreading insurance awareness across rural and urban areas.
iii) The focus during this period was on social security, mobilization of savings, and extending insurance coverage to underserved sections of society.
iv) LIC developed a wide network of agents and offices, and became a household name in India.
3. Liberalization and Privatization Phase (1999–2014): The Indian insurance sector underwent a significant transformation in the late 1990s.
i) The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) was established in 1999 under the IRDA Act, 1999, to regulate and open the insurance sector to private players.
ii) In 2000, private companies were allowed to enter the life insurance market with foreign direct investment (FDI) capped at 26% (now increased to 74%).
iii) Prominent private life insurers like ICICI Prudential, HDFC Standard Life, SBI Life, Bajaj Allianz, and Max Life entered the market.
iv) This brought innovation, customer service improvement, and a wider range of insurance products.
4. Digital and Expansion Phase (2014–Present):
The sector is now experiencing rapid growth driven by technology, financial inclusion, and government initiatives.
i) Insurance penetration and awareness have increased due to digital platforms, mobile apps, and online policy services.
ii) LIC continues to dominate but private players have gained significant market share.
iii) The launch of microinsurance, unit-linked insurance plans (ULIPs), and pension products has diversified offerings.
iv) Government schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) and Atal Pension Yojana have further boosted life insurance coverage among the economically weaker sections.
In conclusion, life insurance in India has evolved from an elitist British legacy to a powerful tool of social and financial inclusion. The sector now operates under robust regulation and contributes significantly to economic development through capital formation, employment generation, and financial protection for millions.
6. (a) What is group insurance? Discuss the advantages and limitations of group insurance. (3+7+4=14 Marks)
Answer: Group insurance is a type of insurance coverage provided to a group of people under a single master policy, usually offered by an employer, association, or organization to its employees or members. It includes various types of insurance such as life insurance, health insurance, accident insurance, and more.
The organization or employer acts as the policyholder, while the individual members receive the insurance benefits. Premiums may be fully paid by the employer or shared with the employees.
Advantages of Group Insurance: (7 Points)
i) Cost-effective Coverage: Group insurance policies are generally cheaper than individual policies because the risk is spread over many people. Employers often negotiate favorable premium rates.
ii) Easy Access: Employees or members do not have to undergo medical tests or complicated procedures to be insured. Coverage is automatic upon joining the organization or after a short waiting period.
iii) Inclusive Protection: It offers protection to a wide range of individuals, including those who may not be eligible for individual policies due to age or health conditions.
iv) Employee Retention and Motivation: Group insurance acts as a valuable fringe benefit. It improves employee morale, loyalty, and job satisfaction, which helps reduce attrition.
v) Tax Benefits: Both employers and employees can avail tax benefits. Employer-paid premiums are treated as a business expense, and employee premiums qualify for deduction under Section 80C or 80D of the Income Tax Act.
vi) Customizable Plans: Employers can customize group insurance packages based on the needs of the workforce, including additional riders such as accidental death, critical illness, etc.
vii) Family Coverage: In some cases, family members of the employees (spouse, children) can also be covered under group insurance plans at competitive rates.
Limitations of Group Insurance: (4 Points)
i) Limited Control for Members: Since the policy is owned by the employer, individual members have limited say in the choice of coverage or insurer. The coverage may not align with individual needs.
ii) Termination of Coverage:
Coverage under group insurance typically ends when the individual leaves the organization. Unless portable, employees may lose the benefits and may have to buy costly individual policies later.
iii) Limited Sum Assured: The sum insured under group policies is usually lower than what might be required for comprehensive individual coverage. It may not be sufficient for long-term financial needs.
iv) Dependence on Employer: The availability of insurance benefits is dependent on the employer’s decision to offer and continue the plan. Any change in employer policy may affect employee coverage.
In conclusion, group insurance is an efficient and economical way to provide insurance coverage to a large number of individuals. It offers multiple benefits to both employers and employees but may have limitations in terms of individualization, portability, and adequacy of coverage. To ensure complete financial security, it is advisable to supplement group insurance with personal insurance policies.
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(b) Explain the following: 7+7=14
(i) Surrender Value vs. Paid-up Value
Answer: Surrender Value and Paid-up Value are two important terms related to life insurance policies, especially in the context of policy discontinuation. They represent the monetary value a policyholder can receive if the policy is not continued till maturity.
Surrender Value: Surrender value is the amount payable to the policyholder by the insurance company when he or she voluntarily terminates the policy before its maturity and after paying premiums for a minimum period (usually 2–3 years). It is calculated based on the total premiums paid and any bonus accrued, after deducting surrender charges.
It is applicable only when the policyholder discontinues the policy and withdraws from it completely.
Generally, the surrender value is a percentage of the total premiums paid (excluding the premium for riders and taxes).
It is usually lower than the sum assured and varies depending on the duration the premiums were paid.
Once surrendered, the policy is terminated and no further benefits are payable.
Paid-up Value:
Paid-up value arises when the policyholder stops paying the premium after a certain period (usually after 2–3 years), but chooses not to surrender the policy. In such cases, the policy continues with a reduced sum assured (called paid-up value), and no future premiums are required.
Paid-up value = (Number of premiums paid / Total number of premiums payable) × Sum Assured.
The policy continues with reduced benefits and is payable on maturity or death.
Bonuses accrued till the date of making it paid-up are retained, but no further bonuses are added.
This is suitable for those who cannot afford further premiums but still want some coverage.
In essence, surrender value offers an immediate lump sum by exiting the policy, while paid-up value allows continued coverage with a reduced benefit.
(ii) With Profit Policies vs. Without Profit Policies
Answer: Life insurance policies are categorized as With Profit and Without Profit based on whether they offer a share in the insurer's profits.
With Profit Policies:
In this type of policy, the policyholder gets a share of the insurer’s profits in the form of bonuses or dividends.
Bonuses are declared annually (reversionary bonus) and added to the sum assured, or paid at maturity (terminal bonus).
Premiums are higher than in without profit policies because the insurer includes the bonus component.
These policies provide a higher return and are suitable for long-term investment-cum-protection.
The total amount receivable on maturity or death includes the sum assured plus accrued bonuses.
The bonus is not guaranteed but depends on the insurer’s annual surplus.
Without Profit Policies:
These policies provide only the basic sum assured without any bonus or share in profits.
The premium is lower as compared to with profit policies.
The return is fixed and predetermined, making them more predictable.
These are simple risk cover policies with no element of savings or profit-sharing.
They are suitable for those who want pure protection at a lower cost.
To conclude, with profit policies offer a combination of insurance and investment benefits, whereas without profit policies provide only insurance protection.
7. (a) What is non-life insurance? Discuss the features and benefits of non-life insurance policy. 3+11=14
Answer: Non-life insurance, also known as general insurance, refers to insurance policies that provide coverage for assets, liabilities, and health. Unlike life insurance, non-life insurance does not provide protection for life or survival but covers financial losses due to unexpected events such as accidents, theft, fire, health emergencies, and natural disasters.
Examples include health insurance, motor insurance, fire insurance, marine insurance, travel insurance, and home insurance.
Features of Non-Life Insurance:
i) Short-term Coverage: Non-life insurance policies are usually annual contracts, renewed every year.
ii) Indemnity-based: These policies are designed to indemnify the policyholder against actual loss or damage, not to provide financial gain.
iii) Diverse Categories: It covers a wide range of risks such as property damage, liability, medical expenses, and travel inconveniences.
iv) Premium-based on Risk: The premium is calculated based on the type of risk, value of the insured item, and other risk factors.
v) No Maturity Benefit: Unlike life insurance, there is no maturity or survival benefit. It only pays when a claim arises.
vi) Customizable Policies: Many non-life insurance products can be tailored with add-ons or riders to suit specific needs.
vii) Third-party Coverage: Certain policies, like motor insurance, include mandatory third-party liability coverage.
Benefits of Non-Life Insurance:
i) Financial Protection: It safeguards individuals and businesses from sudden financial losses arising due to accidents, fire, theft, etc.
ii) Health Security: Health insurance covers hospitalization costs, medical bills, and treatment expenses, reducing financial burden during illness.
iii) Business Continuity: For businesses, insurance against fire, liability, or machinery breakdown ensures continued operations with minimal disruption.
iv) Risk Sharing: Non-life insurance spreads the risk among many policyholders, making it affordable for all.
v) Peace of Mind: Knowing that one is protected against unforeseen risks brings mental peace and confidence.
vi) Legal Compliance: Certain non-life insurances like motor insurance are legally mandatory and ensure compliance with laws.
vii) Encourages Savings: By covering large, uncertain expenses, non-life insurance allows individuals to save and invest their income.
viii) Support in Emergencies: In case of natural calamities or accidents, quick claim settlement offers timely financial assistance.
In conclusion, non-life insurance plays a crucial role in personal and economic stability by covering a broad range of everyday risks and losses. It is an essential part of any risk management plan for individuals and businesses alike.
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(b) Discuss the power and functions of IRDA in regulating Indian insurance sector. 14
Answer: The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) is the apex body responsible for regulating, promoting, and ensuring the orderly growth of the insurance sector in India. It was established under the IRDA Act, 1999, as a statutory body. Its headquarters is in Hyderabad.
Powers and Functions of IRDAI:
1. Regulatory Functions:
i) Issuance of Licenses: IRDA grants licenses to insurance companies, brokers, agents, surveyors, and third-party administrators (TPAs) after verifying their qualifications and compliance.
ii) Regulation of Premium Rates and Terms: It ensures that insurance companies do not charge excessive or unfair premium rates and that the policy terms are transparent and fair.
iii) Approval of Insurance Products: Before launching any new policy, insurance companies must obtain approval from IRDA to ensure the product meets consumer interests and regulations.
iv) Solvency Margin Monitoring: It ensures that insurers maintain the required solvency margin, i.e., the ability to meet their long-term liabilities and claims.
v) Investment Regulation: IRDA regulates how insurers can invest their funds, especially those collected from policyholders, to ensure safety and returns.
2. Developmental Functions:
i) Promotion of Insurance Awareness: IRDA works to promote awareness about the importance of insurance, especially in rural and unserved regions.
ii) Growth of the Insurance Sector: It takes initiatives to increase insurance penetration and density in India by encouraging competition and innovation.
iii) Research and Training: It facilitates research in the insurance sector and conducts training programs for intermediaries and insurance employees.
3. Protective Functions:
i) Consumer Protection: IRDA ensures that policyholders’ interests are protected by setting up mechanisms for grievance redressal and monitoring unfair trade practices.
ii) Grievance Redressal Mechanism: The Integrated Grievance Management System (IGMS) and the Insurance Ombudsman scheme help resolve consumer complaints quickly and efficiently.
iii) Monitoring Market Conduct: It monitors the conduct of insurers and intermediaries to ensure ethical business practices and prevent mis-selling.
4. Supervisory Functions:
i) Inspection and Audit: IRDA conducts regular inspections, audits, and reviews of insurance companies to ensure they are functioning within the legal framework.
ii) Penal Actions: It has the authority to impose penalties, suspend licenses, or take legal action against entities violating the law or IRDA regulations.
5. Frame and Enforce Regulations: IRDA has the power to frame regulations and guidelines regarding insurance operations, financial reporting, disclosures, commissions, claims, and more.
6. Encourage Competition and Efficiency: IRDA promotes a competitive insurance market by allowing private and foreign players, thereby improving service quality and efficiency.
Conclusion: IRDAI plays a pivotal role in regulating and developing the insurance sector in India. Its powers and functions ensure that the insurance industry remains stable, transparent, and policyholder-centric. Through effective regulation, supervision, and promotion of fair practices, IRDAI has contributed significantly to the growth and modernization of India’s insurance landscape.
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(c) Explain the main constituents of the insurance market in India. 14
Answer: The insurance market in India comprises various entities that contribute to the promotion, distribution, regulation, and development of insurance services. These constituents work together to provide risk protection and financial security to individuals and businesses. The main constituents of the Indian insurance market are:
1. Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI): IRDAI is the statutory regulatory body for the insurance sector. It was established under the IRDA Act, 1999. It issues licenses, regulates policies, monitors the solvency of companies, protects policyholder interests, and ensures the orderly growth of the industry. It frames rules and guidelines and enforces compliance across all insurance entities.
2. Life Insurance Companies: These companies offer policies that provide financial coverage against the risk of death and serve as investment tools. They offer a variety of plans including term plans, endowment plans, whole life plans, ULIPs, and pension plans. Prominent life insurers in India include Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), HDFC Life, SBI Life, ICICI Prudential Life, etc.
3. General Insurance Companies (Non-Life Insurance Companies): These insurers provide protection against risks other than life, such as health, motor, fire, marine, travel, liability, and property insurance. Examples include New India Assurance, United India Insurance, ICICI Lombard, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, and Tata AIG.
4. Reinsurance Companies: Reinsurers provide insurance to insurance companies. They help insurers manage large or catastrophic risks by sharing part of the liability. The General Insurance Corporation of India (GIC Re) is the primary reinsurance company in India. Foreign reinsurers are also allowed to operate in India with branch offices.
5. Insurance Intermediaries: These are entities that act as a link between insurers and policyholders. They include:
i) Insurance Agents: Individuals or institutions licensed by IRDAI to sell insurance policies on behalf of an insurer. They are the most direct link to customers.
ii) Insurance Brokers: Independent intermediaries who offer products of multiple insurers to clients and provide advisory services. They can be direct brokers, reinsurance brokers, or composite brokers.
iii) Corporate Agents: Institutions like banks, NBFCs, or other companies authorized to sell insurance policies from one life, one general, and one health insurance company.
iv) Third Party Administrators (TPAs): Specialized entities that provide claim processing and cashless services for health insurance policies.
6. Insurance Marketing Firms (IMFs): IMFs are allowed to distribute policies from multiple insurers and are authorized to sell other financial products such as mutual funds and pension plans. They function at a local or regional level and are regulated by IRDAI.
7. Surveyors and Loss Assessors: These are professionals appointed by insurers to assess the quantum of loss in case of claims, especially in motor, marine, fire, and other property-related insurance.
8. Policyholders (Consumers): They are the central part of the insurance market. They include individuals, families, businesses, and institutions that buy insurance for protection against various risks.
9. Insurance Ombudsman: This is a quasi-judicial body established to resolve consumer grievances against insurers in a cost-effective, efficient, and impartial manner. It helps in enhancing trust in the insurance market.
10. Government and Statutory Bodies: The government plays a significant role by launching social insurance schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, and others. It also supports the market through institutions like the LIC (public sector insurer) and public sector general insurers.
Conclusion: The insurance market in India is a well-structured system comprising regulators, insurers, intermediaries, service providers, and consumers. Together, these constituents contribute to the growth, regulation, and smooth functioning of the insurance sector, making it a vital part of the financial ecosystem of the country.
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