Overworked and overstretched: Why Indian professionals are finding purpose in volunteering

Amid rising stress and isolation, over half of Indian professionals report functioning in “survival mode,” struggling with unrelenting workloads, financial pressure, and weakened support systems. Yet, India also records one of the highest volunteering rates globally, with employees seeking purpose, connection, and impact outside work. Experts stress that meaningful volunteering must complement, not replace, systemic workplace support.