GS-3News & Analysis30 July 2026thehindu.com

IRDAI greenlights reforms, policyholder fund norms, new general insurer

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has approved significant reforms aimed at enhancing operational and financial flexibility for insurers, strengthening policyholder protection, and streamlining regulatory processes. Key approvals include new Policyholders’ Education and Protection Fund (PEPF) regulations, liberalized investment norms, a facilitative framework for capital infusion, and corporate restructuring. The reforms are crucial for implementing the Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Act, 2025 (SBSR Act), which permits up to 100% FDI in the insurance sector, leading to increased foreign shareholding and capital inflows. IRDAI also granted registration to a new general insurer and introduced perpetual registration for insurers.

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has approved significant reforms aimed at enhancing operational and financial flexibility for insurers, strengthening policyholder protection, and streamlining regulatory processes. Key approvals include new Policyholders’ Education and Protection Fund (PEPF) regulations, liberalized investment norms, a facilitative framework for capital infusion, and corporate restructuring. The reforms are crucial for implementing the Sabka Bima Sabki Raksha (Amendment of Insurance Laws) Act, 2025 (SBSR Act), which permits up to 100% FDI in the insurance sector, leading to increased foreign shareholding and capital inflows. IRDAI also granted registration to a new general insurer and introduced perpetual registration for insurers.

Exam linkage

GS Paper 3: Indian Economy - Financial Markets (Insurance Sector, Capital Market Reforms, FDI)

Syllabus mapping

Indian EconomyFinancial Markets & InstrumentsIndian ConstitutionSeparation Of PowersSocial Sector Health EducationInvestment Models

This topic appears in Mains

Questions on Indian Economy come up regularly in GS papers. Practice writing an answer — and see exactly what earns marks.

Editorial & Review Process

Every current affairs analysis and practice question on UPSC Practice is researched using authoritative primary sources and reviewed for factual accuracy and syllabus relevance. Read our Editorial Policy.

Verified Quality