Will the agent be helpful in settling of claims in future?

Yes, your agent will be helpful but he is getting 100% of his income from the insurance company and he may be getting .001 % of his income from you. If he has to make a choice, it is natural that he will favour Insurance company. You are the best person to decide whether to buy directly from the company or through an agent. Theoretically the agent is supposed to help you in claim settlement but time will tell when the claim is to be lodged. Be positive and buy it through agent but better buy through an Insurance Brokerage Firm as it offers wider choice and is large enough to protect your interests.