Employee Benefits in India: What You Really Get at Work

When you hear employee benefits, the extra perks and protections employers offer beyond salary. Also known as workplace benefits, they’re meant to support your health, finances, and daily life—not just fill a brochure. But in India, what you actually get depends more on your company size and industry than the law. Many small businesses offer nothing beyond statutory leaves. Mid-sized firms might throw in health insurance. Big corporations? They might cover gym memberships, mental health counseling, or even childcare subsidies. The gap between what’s promised and what’s delivered is wide—and it’s not always your fault.

Let’s break down what health insurance, coverage provided by employers for medical expenses usually looks like. Most companies offer group plans, but the coverage is often thin. You might get ₹3–5 lakh annually, but that doesn’t cover chronic conditions, dental work, or mental health therapy. And if you’re on a contract? Forget it. Then there’s paid leave, time off with full pay, including sick days and vacation. The law says 12 paid sick days and 15–20 earned leave per year, but many employers make you beg for it. If you take leave without approval, you’re labeled "unreliable." Meanwhile, companies like Infosys or TCS quietly offer 20+ days of vacation and flexible hours. It’s not about policy—it’s about culture.

What’s missing? employee wellness, programs that support physical, mental, and emotional health at work. Only a handful of Indian companies track stress levels, offer therapy sessions, or give time off for burnout. Most still think "wellness" means a yoga class on Friday. But if your job drains you, you need more than that. You need real support: flexible hours for caregivers, remote work options, financial planning help, or even meal subsidies. These aren’t luxuries—they’re what keep people from quitting.

And here’s the truth: if your employer doesn’t offer these, it doesn’t mean they don’t matter. It just means you have to ask. Know what’s standard. Know what’s missing. And don’t assume your salary is the only thing that counts. The best jobs don’t just pay you—they protect you, support you, and give you space to breathe. Below, you’ll find real stories and guides on what benefits actually exist in India, how to spot the ones worth keeping, and what to push for when your company falls short.