To take Insurance to Bharat, the IRDAI has set an ambitious vision for the insurance sector: ‘Insurance for all by

2047.’ To achieve this goal, the regulatory authority envisions the need for an expanded landscape of insurance providers and distribution partners in PAN India.

For the same, IRDAI introduced the Point of Salespersons (PoSP) distribution model in 2015. This aligns with the regulator’s strategic objective of fostering growth and deepening penetration in the Indian market. Therefore, we maintain a positive outlook on the insurance sector, anticipating emerging opportunities throughout the value chain.

Before this regulation came into existence, insurance agents were limited to selling policies from a single insurer in motor, health, and life insurance lines of business. Agents often circumvent this restriction by registering with multiple insurance companies using the names of family members, such as spouses, siblings, parents, and more.

Overall, the commencement of the PoSP agent framework, which permits working across various insurance providers, has given rise to a new generation of sizable insurance brokers. These brokers make substantial investments in technology and streamlined processes to facilitate the expansion of their operations.

According to various estimates and sources, the industry is expected to grow at a rate ranging from 12% to 18% due to the demand for Insurance PoS agents.

Who is a PoS Insurance Agent?

A PoS (Point of Sales) Insurance Agent is a type of insurance intermediary authorized to sell insurance products to customers. PoS agents are a part of the distribution network in the insurance industry and play a crucial role in reaching out to potential policyholders.

Who can become a PoSP agent in India?

A PoSP agent should possess strong communication skills, teamwork abilities, a customer-centric approach, professionalism, curiosity, and a capacity for rapid learning. Furthermore, in the context of the pandemic, as many of us are working remotely, a PoSP agent should also be tech-savvy and proficient in selling and issuing insurance policies online. All that is required is a smartphone or a laptop and a stable internet connection.

As per the current scenario of PoSP in India, individuals can undergo basic training and certification, enabling them to sell a variety of pre-underwritten or standard insurance products from different insurers to their customers. The training and certification processes are straightforward and beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enter the industry and establish a rewarding independent career path.

The eligibility criteria to become a PoSP agent in India

  • The minimum age to apply for a PoSP agent in India is 18 years old.
  • Must have a valid PAN Card and an Aadhaar Card.
  • Must be the 10th Passed.

The insurance sector provides an appealing career path, offering individuals an alternative option for part-time work from the comfort of their homes, which is especially valuable during challenging times. These opportunities enable individuals to earn income on their own terms, without a fixed retirement age limit. One can continue earning as long as they are willing to dedicate their efforts.

Who should opt for an Insurance PoSP career in India?

College Students: If you are pursuing higher education but wish to earn extra income during your free time, this is an excellent option.

Stay-at-Home Spouses and Homemakers/ Retired individuals: Stay-at-home husbands and wives with available time can become PoSPs to supplement their family’s income.

Business Professionals: Even if you already run a business, becoming a PoSP can be a worthwhile side endeavour. Especially in challenging economic times, it provides an opportunity to generate extra income and support your existing business.

How does a PoSP Insurance Agent contributing to the Insurance Sector in India?

One of the key advantages of appointing PoSPs is the expansion of the distribution network, enhancing reach and accessibility to a broader range of potential customers for market participants. By tapping into this larger customer base through PoSPs, insurers can promote organic growth and establish greater stability in their operations.

Analysing Recent Market Trends

According to the IRDAI Annual Report as of March 31, 2021, insurance market participants had engaged 827,901 PoSPs (Point of Salespersons). Notably, insurance brokers emerged as the most proactive in training and appointing PoSPs, with 449,585 PoSPs appointed by March 31, 2021. It is worth mentioning that these figures encompass the collective count of PoSPs appointed by 106 brokers, resulting in an average of approximately 4,241 PoSPs per broker.

Furthermore, the data highlights a concentration of PoSPs within the intermediary segments, particularly brokers and corporate agents, which jointly account for 555,452 PoSPs—constituting more than half of the total number in the industry.

Bottom Line

Overall PoSP agents act as a vital component in expanding insurance penetration and reaching underserved areas of the country.

FAQs

Q1: What is a PoSP agent in the insurance sector of India?

A1: A PoSP agent, or Point of Sales Person agent, is an individual authorized by an insurance company to sell insurance products directly to customers. They act as an intermediary who help insurance companies extend their reach and make insurance more accessible to the public.

Q2: How has the role of PoSP agents evolved in India?

A2: The role of PoSP agents in India has evolved significantly over the years. They have become instrumental in expanding insurance penetration, especially in rural and underserved areas. PoSP agents provide personalized services, simplify the insurance process, and often leverage digital tools for efficient operations.

Q3: What types of insurance products can PoSP agents sell?

PoSP agents can sell various insurance products, including life insurance, health insurance, motor insurance, and other general insurance policies. Their portfolio may vary depending on the insurance company they are associated with.

Q4: How can individuals become PoSP agents in India?

To become a PoSP agent in India, individuals typically need to fulfill certain eligibility criteria, undergo training provided by insurance companies, and obtain the necessary licenses and certifications. The specific requirements may vary among insurance companies and regulatory guidelines.

Q5: Can PoSP agents operate digitally in India?

A5: Yes, many PoSP agents in India leverage digital tools and online platforms to conduct their operations. They use technology for tasks such as policy issuance, premium collection, and customer management, enhancing their efficiency and reach.