Operating income for the quarter rose 16 percent to $293 million, or $1.17 per diluted share, from $253 million, or $1.07 per share in 2001.

The company said first quarter operating earnings per share reflect higher shares outstanding, primarily due to stock offerings related to the acquisition of Fortis Financial Group and a recapitalization after Sept. 22 adding 17 million shares.

Strong operating income growth in property-casualty operations was produced by good underwriting results from business insurance and improvements in specialty and reinsurance, the company said.

The Hartford said a previously announced $11 million after-tax expense at Hartford Life related to litigation was partially offset by an $8 million after-tax benefit related to reserves associated with the Sept. 11 terrorist attack.

Ramani Ayer, Hartford chairman and chief executive officer, in a statement, said the company is "confident we will achieve profitable growth in 2002 and beyond."

The company said its group benefits segment increased operating income 22 percent to $28 million in this year's first quarter.

Operating income for North American property-casualty operations were listed as rising 14 percent to $122 million.

The Hartford said combined premiums for personal lines and commercial businesses were up 14 percent helped by increased prices, new business growth and good retention rates. Premiums in the middle market increased 19 percent and rose 16 percent for small commercial business.

For the first quarter this year, The Hartford said its combined ratio was 99.4 compared to 101.8 in 2001--an improvement, it was noted, that came despite higher auto losses.

Catastrophe losses were put at $13 million, after tax, compared with $19 million last year.

Life operations for the company had a 10 percent growth in operating income rising to $177 million against $161 million in the comparable period.