Star Health Insurance Unveils India’s First Insurance Policy in Braille

• ~ Launches industry-first Braille version of Special Care Gold, offering comprehensive protection tailored for individuals with 40% or more disability
• ~ Launches a long-term inclusivity and diversity initiative to empower visually impaired individuals with income opportunities in the insurance sector

Star Health and Allied Insurance Co. Ltd (Star Health Insurance), India’s largest retail health insurer, has unveiled an industry-first insurance policy available in Braille. This groundbreaking initiative underscores Star Health Insurance’s dedication to inclusivity and accessibility, taking a significant step toward empowering the visually impaired and blind community. The policy allows them to access vital information and make independent decisions regarding their health and finances.

In addition, Star Health has launched a diversity and financial inclusivity drive aimed at economically empowering the 34 million visually impaired and blind individuals in India. The initiative offers income generation opportunities by providing training and upskilling, enabling them to become health insurance agents with the company. This innovative approach allows them to work at their own pace, within their familiar environments, giving them the opportunity to take control of their lives and achieve financial independence.

Renowned industrialist Mr. Srikanth Bolla, a visually impaired entrepreneur and Co-Founder & Chairman of Bollant Industries, along with Mr. Anand Roy, MD & CEO of Star Health Insurance, graced the launch event.

Anand Roy, MD & CEO of Star Health Insurance said, “The launch of ‘Special Care Gold’ policy in Braille is a significant milestone in our mission to deliver equitable access to health insurance across all segments of society. This policy transcends traditional insurance, embodying our commitment to ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive the comprehensive support and coverage they need. We aim to build a more inclusive insurance sector – and specifically the 34 million individuals in India that are visually impaired. Aligned with IRDAI’s ‘Insurance for All’ vision, we are dedicated to ensuring democratisation of not just quality health insurance but also extend to enabling financial inclusivity by creating sustainable income generation opportunities for this unserved and marginalised section of society. And who better than Srikanth Bolla – a dynamic force in society to evangelise this movement.”

Srikanth Bolla, Co-Founder & Chairman Bollant Industries said, “As someone who has experienced the challenges faced by individuals with special abilities, I applaud Star Health Insurance for this industry first, inclusive initiative. Special Care Gold is not just an insurance policy in Braille; it is a message of empowerment and equal opportunity. It acknowledges that people with special abilities have the same right to health protection as anyone else, and that’s a significant stride towards true inclusivity in our society. My family and I are proud customers of Star Health Insurance – and I am delighted to now become a licensed health insurance agent with Star Health and to further evangelise this to reach those that need this crucial support to help them create their own destiny.”

In India, 34 million people (2.5% of the population) are visually impaired. Economic potential total loss of productivity due to
vision impairment in India is INR 646 billion. The ‘Special Care Gold’ policy is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of persons with disabilities (PWD). In 2017, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare reported that 34 million people in India, or 2.5% of the population, are visually impaired. A 2022 study by the Indian Journal of Ophthalmology estimated that vision impairment causes an economic loss of INR 646 billion in productivity, with a per capita loss of INR 9,192. This policy addresses a critical need for inclusive and comprehensive health coverage for this critical but unserved segment of customers. Special Care Gold
exemplifies Star Health Insurance’s commitment to ensuring that quality healthcare is accessible to all, including those with conditions that are often overlooked.

Star Health Insurance aims to provide comprehensive support to these new recruits, including fully funded exam preparations, audio training and scribe for the exam for persons with disabilities (PWD). A dedicated hotline number for agents has been established to offer ongoing assistance and to address concerns. This initiative is designed to offer marginalized communities the flexibility to work at their own pace and from the comfort of their homes, making income generation accessible and adaptable
to their individual needs.

The Braille version of “Special Care Gold” policy document was produced in collaboration with the National Association of the Blind (NAB). The policy offers tailored coverage for individuals with 40% or more disability, including those with physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments. It covers essential medical treatments and support services.