About 43% Indian Techies Experience Health Concerns Stemming from Work, Finds Onsurity-KCCI Study 

A staggering 43% of Indian tech professionals experience health concerns due to their work, with long work hours identified as one of the major contributors to poor health, according to a study by Onsurity, India’s first monthly subscription-based employee healthcare benefits platform, in partnership with the Knowledge Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI).

The study titled “Burying the Burnout: Decoding the Health Challenges of India’s Tech Geniuses” highlights the soaring health concerns among Indian tech professionals arising from work-related issues. With the Indian government focused on increasing the contribution of technology to the country’s GDP, it is imperative for companies to make employee well-being a key focus. Findings from the Onsurity-KCCI study offer a window into the challenges that come in the way of maximising the full potential of the country’s tech professionals.

It’s alarming to note that more than 50% of tech professionals in India are working an average of 52.5 hours per week, surpassing the national average of 47.7 hours per week. A staggering 55% of these professionals have reported that working late hours significantly impacts their health, leading to concerns such as acidity, gut problems, back and neck pain, erratic sleep cycles, muscle stiffness, eyesight-related issues, weight gain, and intense headaches. Additionally, nearly 45% of tech professionals have disclosed that their mental health is suffering, with stress, anxiety, and depression taking a toll on their well-being.

Over 26% of techies are experiencing exacerbated sleep patterns, with more than 51% of them getting only an average of 5.5 to 6 hours of sleep per day. Furthermore, a significant 74% of techies are sacrificing family events and celebrations due to work demands. These findings shed light on the serious health and well-being challenges faced by tech professionals in India.

Commenting on the findings of the study, Yogesh Agarwal, Founder and CEO, Onsurity said, “As we continue to progress as an economy, our dependence on tech talent is only going to increase, making it imperative for companies to provide the right environment for their techies to thrive in. It’s crucial that we don’t overlook the daily struggles of tech professionals in our pursuit of success, as neglecting their well-being could not only render technology jobs unappealing but also hinder the true potential of these individuals. Our findings serve as a wake-up call for tech-led companies, and we hope that it inspires more companies to prioritise the health and well-being of their teams.”

Bharat Patel, Secretary General, KCCI said, “Our social responsibility to prioritise employee welfare extends beyond mere ethical considerations. Frankly, working in the IT/ITES sector is exceptionally demanding, akin to traversing a tightrope. With tight deadlines and inevitable setbacks, employees’ health often bears the brunt. Therefore, focusing on preventive measures is paramount. By fostering a supportive work environment, companies can ensure that employees feel comfortable, stress-free, and satisfied. Prioritising employee welfare isn’t just a preference, it’s a necessity.”

Employers have a vested interest in the well-being of their employees, as it directly influences productivity, morale, and overall organisational success. Recognising this, employers must prioritise the implementation of additional measures and efforts to safeguard the health and well-being of their workforce, especially their tech employees.

Key Findings:

• Over 50% of tech professionals in India are clocking an average of 52.5 hours every week, surpassing the overall national average of 47.7 hours per week.
• A staggering 55% of tech professionals have voiced that working late hours significantly impacts their health. Among their top concerns are acidity, gut problems, back and neck pain, erratic sleep cycles, muscle stiffness, eyesight-related issues, weight gain, and intense headaches.
• Nearly 45% of tech professionals have disclosed that their mental health is taking a hit. Stress, anxiety, and depression are chipping away at their well-being, leaving them struggling to cope.
• Over 26% of tech professionals face exacerbated sleep patterns, with over 51% of them sleeping an average of 5.5 to 6 hours a day.
• 74% of techies sacrifice family events and celebrations due to work demands.

You can download the study here.

About Onsurity

Founded in February 2020, Onsurity is a Bengaluru-based employee healthcare benefits provider for India’s SMEs, start-ups, and enterprises. The company has served 10,00,000+ lives and currently works with 5,000+ companies, including Jupiter Money, CleverTap, Porter, Zepto, Sobha Developers, DBS Bank, Pantaloons, and Naturals Ice Cream, among others.

Onsurity’s mission is to make healthcare accessible for India’s missing middle. Through holistic healthcare and wellness solutions, the company offers businesses the flexibility of monthly subscriptions for payments, and the convenience of usage through its Super App. Onsurity’s broader mission extends beyond safeguarding health; it encompasses a holistic commitment to fortify SME businesses.

Onsurity is backed by International Finance Corporation, Quona Capital, Nexus Venture Partners, Whiteboard Capital, and other technology and impact investors. In October 2022, cricket legend Anil Kumble joined Onsurity as a strategic advisor. The company was recognised as “Dun & Bradstreet Start-up 50 Trailblazer 2023” by D&B India.

Atmanirbhar Suraksha Insurance Private Limited (ASIPL) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Onsurity Technologies Private Limited | IRDAI Corporate Agent Registration Number: CA0836| Category – Corporate Agent (Composite) | CIN – U74999KA2021PTC143928

About Knowledge Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI)

KCCI is swiftly emerging as one of India’s most rapidly growing apex business organisations and holds the distinction of being the Youngest Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the country. As a not-for-profit entity, KCCI plays a proactive role in India’s developmental landscape, serving as a knowledgeable advocate for the country’s business and industry sectors.

With operational wings spanning across more than 22 cities in India and presence in 10 countries globally, KCCI’s reach is extensive. The organisation conducts a wide array of initiatives throughout the year, both nationally and internationally, often in collaboration with various State Departments and Ministries. Additionally, KCCI serves as a Chamber of Chambers, boasting associations with over 50 chambers and associations nationwide. Through its multifaceted efforts, KCCI is instrumental in fostering growth, collaboration, and innovation within India’s business community.