Efforts to build inclusive and mentally healthy workplaces in India are gaining momentum as organisations increasingly recognise that mental health and inclusion must go hand in hand. Experts emphasise that for LGBTQIA+ employees, workplace wellbeing is closely linked to identity, belonging, and the freedom to express their authentic selves without fear of judgement or discrimination.
Progressive companies are moving beyond generic mental health frameworks and adopting policies that acknowledge diverse employee experiences shaped by gender, sexuality, disability, and neurodiversity. Measures such as extending healthcare benefits to partners, ensuring access to mental health professionals familiar with LGBTQIA+ concerns, creating gender-affirmation policies, and establishing grievance redressal systems are being viewed as essential steps toward genuine inclusion.
Organisations are also being encouraged to respect employee privacy and avoid pressuring individuals to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity. Inclusive systems, experts say, should be accessible to all employees regardless of whether they openly identify themselves.
In Guwahati, several companies and start-ups are gradually adopting inclusive HR practices as part of broader workforce-wellbeing strategies. HR consultants in the city report that organisations focusing on psychological safety and inclusive benefits are seeing improved employee engagement and retention, indicating that inclusive workplace policies are increasingly becoming a business priority.
Sustained leadership commitment, continuous learning, and long-term cultural change will be crucial for building resilient, equitable workplaces aligned with the vision of a developed India by 2047.