BENGALURU, June 23 — In a landmark move aimed at bolstering student welfare, Bangalore University will provide both life and health insurance to all students enrolled on its Jnana Bharathi campus starting from the 2025–26 academic year.
The decision was finalised during a recent syndicate meeting and will directly benefit more than 4,000 students currently studying across 54 departments at the university’s flagship campus. Syndicate members also directed that students enrolled in affiliated colleges be brought under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Suraksha Yojana — a government-supported personal accident insurance scheme.
A senior university official confirmed the development, noting the urgent need for formal safety nets. “Many of our students come from rural and economically weaker backgrounds. Insurance coverage is a necessary measure, especially given the growing traffic risks around the campus,” the official said.
The Jnana Bharathi campus, intersected by two major arterial roads — one connecting Mysuru Road to Ullal and another from Nagarbhavi to Kengeri — sees heavy vehicular movement, leading to frequent accidents. A fatal incident in 2022, in which a postgraduate student lost her life in a bus mishap, underscored the lack of systemic support for such tragedies.
Until now, compensation for student accidents has been covered from university funds. With the new policy in place, such costs will be met through the insurance, significantly reducing the financial strain on the institution.
Though discussions around student health insurance date back to 2017 — when a committee was formed to explore premium models — the idea never moved beyond paperwork. In the 2024–25 academic session, students were enrolled under the central government’s Ayushman Bharat scheme, and beneficiary cards were issued. However, officials say the coverage under that programme was insufficient to meet the specific risks faced by university students.
“This is a much-needed initiative,” said Dr. Ramesh K, a senior professor and syndicate member. “We’ve seen too many close calls, and sadly, a few tragic losses. With proper insurance, students and their families won’t be left vulnerable during a crisis.”
Implementation details, including insurer selection and premium sharing, are expected to be finalised before the next academic session begins.
