In Focus by The Hindu Insurance Bill 2025: What’s in it for policyholders?
Jan 9, 2026
Shilpa Arora, Co-founder and COO of Insurance Samadhan, sheds light on the recently passed Insurance Bill 2025, a potential game changer for policyholders. She discusses how 100% FDI could enhance affordability and distribution, while also emphasizing the strengthening of the Insurance Regulatory Authority of India. The conversation reveals persistent issues like claim rejections and mis-selling, and highlights the need for better oversight and transparency in the claims process. Arora argues that real consumer benefits hinge on effective implementation of the new regulations.
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TPAs Remain Indirectly Regulated
- The bill does not directly regulate TPAs (third‑party administrators); TPAs remain accountable to insurers, who are regulated by IRDA.
- That indirect chain can delay accountability for claim rejections and needs clearer oversight.
Lower Reinsurer Barriers To Boost Capacity
- Cutting net‑owned fund requirement for foreign reinsurers from ₹5,000cr to ₹1,000cr lowers entry barriers.
- Shilpa says more reinsurers will reduce concentration (now dominated by GIC) and strengthen catastrophe coverage.
Composite Licensing Was Deferred
- Composite licensing (selling life and general products together) was not included; Shilpa feels India may not be 'mature' enough yet.
- Composite licences could lower operational costs and enable bundled products for consumers.