Easy2Siksha Sample Papers
his earnings. Life is smooth until one question suddenly strikes him: “What would
happen to my family if something happened to me?”
This single thought creates worry in Ravi’s mind, not because he doubts life, but because
he loves his family deeply. That is where life insurance comes into the picture—it is not
just a policy or a piece of paper, but a promise of financial protection, a symbol of love,
and a tool of responsibility.
In this explanation, we will understand what life insurance truly means, why it is
important, its objectives, and how it has evolved over the years in India. Let’s take this
journey step by step, in the simplest and most human way possible.
Meaning and Definition of Life Insurance
Life insurance is like a financial safety net that one spreads over their loved ones. It
ensures that even if the earning member of the family passes away, the family’s financial
needs continue to be met.
In simple words:
Life insurance is a contract between an individual (called the insured) and an
insurance company (called the insurer), where the insurer promises to pay a fixed sum
of money (called the sum assured) to the insured’s family or nominee in case of the
insured’s death, in return for a regular payment known as a premium.
Formal Definition
According to the Insurance Act, 1938, life insurance is an agreement by which the
insurer promises to pay a certain amount to the insured, or to his nominee, on the
happening of an event dependent on the human life—such as death or survival for a
fixed period—in exchange for regular premium payments.
In short:
• The insured is the person whose life is covered.
• The insurer is the company that provides the insurance.
• The premium is the amount paid regularly for the policy.
• The sum assured is the guaranteed amount that will be paid upon the event (like
death).
• The nominee is the person who receives the money in case of the insured’s
death.
Thus, life insurance converts uncertainty into certainty and risk into protection.