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Why employee wellbeing is key to thriving Indian industries

Date posted
21 March 2025
Type
Opinion
Author
Hemant Rai CertIOSH
Estimated reading time
3 minute read

Is your workplace helping people succeed? Hemant Rai CertIOSH, a member of our future leaders community steering group, explores the challenges and benefits of prioritising wellbeing for Indian industries. And he suggests five actionable steps.

India’s industries are growing fast, but let’s be real – employee wellbeing is often overlooked. Whether it’s excessive work hours, unsafe environments or mental health struggles, many workers face challenges that affect both their performance and quality of life.

The truth is, healthy employees create successful businesses. Companies that invest in workforce wellbeing experience higher efficiency, reduced absenteeism and better employee loyalty. So, why aren’t more businesses making it a priority?

Let’s explore the state of workplace wellbeing in India and how companies can fix it.

The challenges

Indian industries are known for their high workloads and demanding environments. But how does this affect workers?

  • Nearly half of Indian employees report high workplace stress.[ref 1]
  • Thousands of industrial accidents still occur every year due to safety lapses.[ref 2]
  • Mental health concerns are rising, with economic losses expected to reach $1.03 trillion by 2030.[ref 3]
  • Ergonomic issues in offices and factories contribute to chronic pain and discomfort.[ref 4]

If businesses continue to ignore these risks, they will struggle with burnout, reduced productivity and high employee turnover. It’s time for a proactive approach to employee wellbeing.

Why prioritising wellbeing is a smart move

Investing in employee wellbeing is not an expense – it’s a long-term business strategy. Here’s how companies benefit when they focus on worker health.

  • Boosted productivity – energised employees work more efficiently.[ref 5]
  • Less sick leave – reduced absenteeism means lower disruptions.[ref 6]
  • Higher employee retention – workers stay loyal to organisations that value them.[ref 7]
  • Stronger brand reputation – companies with positive workplace cultures attract top talent.[ref 8]

Ignoring employee wellbeing costs businesses more in the long run – in lost productivity, high turnover and reputational damage.

So, what changes can Indian businesses implement today to improve employee wellbeing?

  1. Arrange routine health check-ups and wellness initiatives.
    Provide comprehensive health insurance, covering both physical and mental health.
    Improve ergonomic conditions to prevent chronic health issues.

  2. Establish employee assistance programmes (EAPs) for confidential support.
    Create a judgment-free culture where employees can discuss mental health.
    Implement work-life balance policies to reduce stress and burnout.

  3. Maintain compliance with occupational safety standards as per the Factories Act, 1948, workplace safety regulations.
    Offer safety training to employees and supervisors.
    Provide protective gear (PPE) for high-risk industries.

  4. Introduce wellness programmes such as yoga or fitness challenges.
    Promote regular breaks to reduce fatigue and increase focus.
    Offer access to fitness spaces or encourage light physical activity.[ref 9]

  5. Recognise and reward employees for their efforts.
    Encourage teamwork and open communication to build a supportive environment.
    Ensure leaders set the example by actively promoting wellbeing [ref 10].

Final thoughts

In today’s competitive world, businesses cannot afford to ignore employee wellbeing. Companies that prioritise health, safety and mental wellness create stronger, more resilient workplaces.

So, here’s the big question: is your workplace helping employees thrive or draining them?

It’s time to shift our focus. Investing in workplace wellbeing today will build the sustainable, high-performing industries of tomorrow.

References

  1. NIMHANS (2021): Workplace Stress in India. Levels of work stress among information technology professionals during COVID-19 pandemic in an Indian metropolis – PMC.

  2. DGFASLI (2022): Industrial Fatalities Report, 65dc3491438c64.98454440.pdf.

  3. WHO (2020): Mental Health Impact on Indian Economy.

  4. Indian Journal of Community and Family Medicine (2022): A Cross-Sectional Study of Musculoskeletal Disorders among Cycle Rickshaw Pullers in Delhi.

  5. International Labour Organization (2022): Workplace Wellbeing and Productivity.

  6. Harvard Business Review (2021) | MIT Sloan: Benefits of Employee Wellbeing. 

  7. PwC India (2023): Employee Retention Strategies (PDF).

  8. Great Place to Work India (2023): Top Companies for Employee Welfare.

  9. 10 Ministry of AYUSH (2023): Yoga and Workplace Wellness.

  10. ILO India (2023): Leadership and Workplace Wellbeing (PDF).

Last updated: 21 March 2025

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