The health insurance sector is expected to be disrupted by LIC's potential acquisition of a 50 percent stake in ManipalCigna Health Insurance, according to analysts.

Despite a 12 percent increase in LIC's share price this year, the stock is still below its IPO price.

Following reports of the acquisition, LIC shares rose by over 2 percent, while competitors Star Health and Niva Bupa saw declines of up to 1 percent.

Experts caution that standalone insurers like Star Health and Niva Bupa may face significant challenges unless they expand into life insurance.

Without such diversification, these companies risk losing new revenue streams in the face of increased competition from a diversified LIC.

LIC's entry into the market could further squeeze margins in the already crowded standalone health insurance segment, intensifying competitive pressures among existing players.