Why employee wellbeing is key to thriving Indian industries

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.

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). (25 Mb) 

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). (865 kb)