These programmes, say HR heads, help boost retention, make people feel supported, and foster a workplace environment that prioritises balance and growth.
Last week, online fashion marketplace Myntra unveiled a pickleball court—one of the first in corporate India—introducing employees to a trending sport. “This is aimed at fostering team spirit and well-being,” said Govindraj MK, CHRO at Myntra. Emphasising that Myntra was looking to go beyond conventional workplace benefits, he said it would soon be launching a zen room, “a dedicated space to promote relaxation and mindfulness.”
Even as work-life balance and 90-hour work weeks remain a hotly debated topic, many employers are focusing on helping employees switch off from work and opt for mental health support when needed.
Skill-gaming platform Mobile Premier League rolled out a paid leave programme in mid-2024 called ‘zen leave,’ which allows employees to disconnect during vacation time. The company ensures people take an uninterrupted break by temporarily removing access to work applications.
Not accessing the likes of Google Suite, Slack and other IT tools allowing focus on personal priorities and recharge, free from work-related distractions. Employees can take 12 such leaves over and above their other leave days.
“It’s not just about time off. It’s about giving people the mental space to unplug without feeling guilty about disconnecting,” said Gaurav Kriplani, head of people at MPL. “We’ve seen how much it has helped people come back with more energy, focus and just a better mindset overall. It’s a small change but has had a big impact on how people feel about work and taking time for themselves.”
Mental health benefits, too, remain a core area.
Meesho has rolled out free weekly counselling sessions where employees have a safe space to discuss their concerns. The response has been overwhelming, said Ashish Kumar, CHRO at Meesho.
The Bengaluru-based firm also offers different leaves to cater to diverse needs. Under ‘infinite wellness leave,’ employees can avail up to 365 days off in certain circumstances. With ‘period leave,’ women can take up to 10 days of leave annually, auto-approved without managerial approval.
Additionally, the likes of upGrad are supporting the development of employees’ families too. The company offers staff an extensive range of online courses, bootcamps or university-led certifications, with full reimbursement upon completion. “To make upskilling a household concept, we have also extended this initiative to immediate family members, offering a 50% reimbursement to them as well,” Amit Mehta, CHRO at upGrad, told ET.
At Shadowfax, pregnant employees have the option of working remotely with adjusted hours, ensuring they can manage their workload and health simultaneously. This option is also available till the child is three years old. Women employees also get an additional 12 days of wellness leave annually.
“As an organisation in logistics, we see a scarcity of female talent and are determined to make the company a great place to work for women. Many of our perks are focused on this philosophy,” said Mohan Sitharam, CHRO at Shadowfax. Battery Smart has rolled out period leave and also arranges regular health checkups and camps, including consultations with gynaecologists, said its HR director Esha Soni.