Economic Survey 2025: Prioritizing mental health and gender inclusivity to boost workforce productivity

In today’s dynamic work environment, mental health and gender inclusivity are increasingly recognized as crucial for both employee well-being and productivity, according to the Economic Survey 2025.

As businesses and organizations navigate an evolving landscape, focusing on mental health can lead to a more engaged and productive workforce. A vital aspect of mental health is the work culture itself.

Research shows that unhealthy lifestyle choices can negatively impact mental health, while positive relationships with colleagues, manageable workloads, and a sense of purpose at work can significantly improve it.

In addition, healthier lifestyle habits and strong family support systems play an important role in enhancing mental well-being, creating a beneficial cycle for both workers and employers.

A critical area in promoting employee health is tackling non-communicable diseases (NCDs). By incorporating preventive measures and leveraging technology, businesses can help reduce the economic strain on healthcare systems. This not only enhances individual well-being but also supports the financial efficiency of both businesses and healthcare sectors.

On the gender inclusivity front, India’s newly introduced Labour Codes aim to eliminate longstanding barriers that have limited women’s workforce participation. While past labour laws were intended to protect female workers, they often resulted in challenges that discouraged hiring.

The new codes seek to address these issues by permitting women to work night shifts with safety precautions, extending 26 weeks of maternity leave to gig and informal workers, and mandating creche facilities in workplaces with 50 or more employees.

The revised laws also ensure equal pay and prohibit gender-based discrimination in recruitment, enabling women to work across all sectors, including hazardous roles, with proper safeguards in place.

These reforms represent a significant leap forward in promoting gender inclusivity, workplace safety, and social security for women in India. By creating a more level playing field, the new Labour Codes are expected to encourage greater female participation in the workforce, leading to a more equitable and balanced society.