author(s)
Sanghamitra Jagtap and Shinde Suvarna R

abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has acted as a catalyst, bringing the silent crisis of employee mental health and burnout to the forefront of the Indian corporate landscape. This report provides a comprehensive, data-driven analysis of the scope, drivers, and strategic solutions to this growing problem. It highlights that poor mental health costs Indian employers an estimated $14 billion annually due to absenteeism, presenteeism, and attrition, and that the country's economic output is projected to forfeit over $1 trillion by 2030 as a result. The analysis identifies key drivers of this crisis, including an unsustainable work culture, the pressures of the "always-on" digital environment, and a pervasive cultural stigma that prevents employees from seeking help. The report argues that the Human Resources function must evolve from an administrative role to a strategic partner in well-being, justified by a compelling business case that demonstrates a significant return on investment. It concludes by presenting a holistic framework of actionable recommendations for HR leaders, including the cultivation of psychological safety, the implementation of comprehensive well-being programs, and the empowerment of managers, all of which are critical to building a resilient, engaged, and productive workforce for India's future