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Last updated on: August 7, 2025
When comparing the ManipalCigna Prime Active Plan and the Niva Bupa Health Companion Plan, both offer comprehensive health insurance with unique benefits. The ManipalCigna Prime Active Plan stands out for its wellness incentives, such as rewards for healthy living and coverage for alternative treatments (AYUSH), as well as options for unlimited restoration of the sum insured. In contrast, the Niva Bupa Health Companion Plan appeals with its affordable premiums, no-room rent capping, and coverage for family floater options, making it ideal for families seeking flexibility. While both plans cover pre- and post-hospitalization expenses and have cashless hospital networks, ManipalCigna may favor individuals focused on wellness perks, whereas Niva Bupa Health Companion is suitable for budget-oriented customers prioritizing straightforward, broad coverage. Ultimately, the better choice depends on individual needs and preferences regarding features and pricing.
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It is quite critical to select the most effective health insurance plan in India as the prices of healthcare will also increase in 2025. The Manipalcigna Prime Active Plan and the Niva Bupa Health Companion Plan are two of the most successful plans that provide extensive features, wide networks, and customisation features- all of which are important factors when the families, individuals, and senior citizens consider a medical cover.
This guide will enable readers to know the major distinctions, compare the advantages and make a wise decision that fits individual health requirements and financial resources. We discuss eligibility, sum insured options, waiting periods, coverage types, add-ons and customer experience, which is easily understood.
The prime active plan of Manipalcigna Health Insurance, which is the best health insurance product, is called Manipalcigna Prime Active Plan and is characterized by the wellness-oriented features. Niva Bupa Health Companion Plan is a common policy that is popular with Niva Bupa Health Insurance due to its flexibility, cashless network and powerful claim service.
These two plans have similar objectives and are aimed at Indian families, young professionals and self employed people, but the cover is customised according to chronic illnesses, hospitalisation expenses and preventive treatment. They possess effective online presence and online health insurance comparison facilities to make buyers empowered.
Did you know?
Although both plans have an all-India coverage, certain network hospitals are also provider specific as a result of tie-ups with hospital groups in metro and Tier 2 cities.
| Characteristic | Manipalcigna Prime Active | Niva Bupa Health Companion |
|---|---|---|
| Sum Insured | ₹3 lakh - ₹1 crore | ₹2 lakh - ₹1 crore |
| Pre-Hospitalisation | 60 days | 30 days |
| Post-Hospitalisation | 180 days | 60 days (renewable) |
| Restoration Benefit | Yes, more than once | Yes, once per year |
| Cashless Hospitals | 8000 plus | 10000 plus |
| Wellness Benefits | Yes | Limited |
| Entry Age | 91 days - no limit | 91 days - no limit |
| Maternity Cover | Optional | Add-on available |
| Critical Illness Add-on | Yes | Yes |
| No Claim Bonus | Up to 200 percent | 20 percent/year |
| Hospitals Networks | Wider, pan India | - |
| Waiting Period | 30 months (pre-existing) | 36 months (pre-existing) |
| Annual Free Health Checkup | Yes | Yes |
Expert Insight: Indian families nowadays seek guidance of financial advisors or online healthcare insurance websites to compare benefits, sum insured and customer reviews before settling on a plan.
Did you know?
In 2025, new IRDAI rules require all insurers to post claims settlement ratio, network hospitals, and waiting periods publicly to help buyers make informed decisions.
Exclusions: Plastic surgery, self-cutting, preexisting conditions (under waiting), maternity unless chosen as optional benefit.
Exclusions: Plastic surgery, dental surgery (except accident), preexisting conditions (under waiting), maternity unless add-on chosen.
| Need or Scenario | Recommended Plan |
|---|---|
| Chronic ailment, lifestyle issues | Manipalcigna Prime Active |
| Very large hospital network | Niva Bupa Health Companion |
| Maximum No Claim Bonus | Manipalcigna Prime Active |
| Cashless payment and speed | Niva Bupa Health Companion |
| Family floater, seniors | Both (check premiums) |
| Preventive wellness in focus | Manipalcigna Prime Active |
A 35 year old purchasing ₹10 lakh coverage for self and spouse:
Family floater (2 kids, ₹10 lakh cover): ~₹21,000 annually in both plans, varying with add-ons.
PAA: Senior citizens over 60 are covered in both plans, but Manipalcigna might charge more for chronic disease support.
Did you know?
Comparing premiums and features on online portals can save buyers up to 20% through exclusive seasonal deals.
Expert Tip: Always read policy wordings or use insurer chat support to understand waiting periods and sub-limits.
PAA: Yes, you may change insurers under portability without losing waiting credits, provided the new insurer accepts your proposal.
Did you know?
WhatsApp reminders for renewal and instant claim support are now offered by insurers, making it easier for working professionals.
Best for: Families, individuals, elderly, and anyone needing protection from rising medical costs in 2025.
Q1. So which is the better plan for older individuals in 2025?
Both cover seniors, but Niva Bupa is preferred for its no room rent limit and larger hospital network, while Manipalcigna is chosen for chronic care.
Q2. Will it be possible to include parents in a family floater plan?
Yes, both allow it, but premiums increase. Compare pre-existing disease cover.
Q3. How long can each insurer take to settle claims?
Niva Bupa: usually within 30 days. Manipalcigna: 7–21 days for cashless claims.
Q4. Are the plans inclusive of COVID and other pandemics?
Yes, as per IRDAI directives.
Q5. Is there any restriction on room rent or ambulance?
Niva Bupa: No room rent limit. Manipalcigna: May have limits depending on variant.
Q6. Are my current health plan portable to Manipalcigna or Niva Bupa in 2025?
Yes, subject to portability rules. Waiting period credits carry forward.
Use unbiased online sites to compare Manipalcigna, Niva Bupa and other insurers on price, hospitals, and customer reviews. Look for seasonal discounts and real user feedback.
How could we improve this article?
Written by Prem Anand, a content writer with over 10+ years of experience in the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance sectors.
Prem Anand is a seasoned content writer with over 10+ years of experience in the Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance sectors. He has a strong command of industry-specific language and compliance regulations. He specializes in writing insightful blog posts, detailed articles, and content that educates and engages the Indian audience.
The content is prepared by thoroughly researching multiple trustworthy sources such as official websites, financial portals, customer reviews, policy documents and IRDAI guidelines. The goal is to bring accurate and reader-friendly insights.
This content is created to help readers make informed decisions. It aims to simplify complex insurance and finance topics so that you can understand your options clearly and take the right steps with confidence. Every article is written keeping transparency, clarity, and trust in mind.
Based on Google's Helpful Content System, this article emphasizes user value, transparency, and accuracy. It incorporates principles of E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness).
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