Manufacturing Employees at Best Workplaces Are 2.7x More Likely to Experience Psychological Safety

Mumbai, January 30, 2025: The manufacturing sector is undergoing a profound transformation, and at the heart of this change lies a new approach to workplace culture—one that is grounded in fairness, transparency, and inclusivity. As India’s manufacturing industry advances toward Industry 5.0, the need for companies to prioritize not just technological innovation, but also the well-being of their workforce, has never been more critical. The organizations recognized as India’s Best Workplaces™ in Manufacturing for 2025 are leading the way by creating environments where employees feel valued, motivated, and genuinely connected to their work.

As the manufacturing sector embraces the shift toward Industry 5.0, companies are realizing that employee well-being is a crucial engine for this transformation. While technological progress remains a priority, the role of people in this evolution is equally important. Over the past five years, there has been steady progress in improving work-life balance, management approachability, and employee involvement, helping to combat the burnout that has long challenged the sector.

Today, employees in the Best Workplaces are 2.7 times more likely to stay in psychologically healthy environments, and the overall view of manufacturing as a great place to work has risen to 87% in 2025. This increase reflects the growing recognition that the future of manufacturing is not only about machines and automation but about cultivating a culture that nurtures the people behind the production lines.

On this note, Balbir Singh, CEO, Great Place To Work®, India, said “India’s manufacturing sector is driving progress, contributing 17% to the nation’s GDP. With initiatives like Make in India and the production Linked Incentive schemes, the foundation is laid for India to become a global manufacturing hub. Four key pillars—Competence, Operations, Resilience, and Emerging Talent and Markets (C.O.R.E.)—are steering this growth, ensuring a positive impact on the workforce. These priorities focus on advanced technologies, infrastructure, and nurturing a diverse, skilled workforce. At the core of this progress are the people. Insights from our latest study, involving over 8 lakh employees, show that 87% feel positive about their workplaces—highlighting the sector’s progress in fostering employee satisfaction. As the industry advances toward Industry 5.0, the focus isn’t just on smarter machines but on fostering workplaces that prioritize employee well-being. To combat employee burnout, organizations are taking steps to improve work-life balance, make leaders more approachable, and enhance employee engagement. Leading organizations are building culture of trust and psychological safety, and when employees feel valued, they are 2.7 times more likely to stay. To overcome challenges, organizations need to continuously listen and empower their employees, to shape industry’s future.

He also added, “India’s strength lies in its youthful, dynamic workforce and a culture rooted in resilience and teamwork. Key drivers of growth include combining human creativity with technology, enabling inclusive opportunities, and cultivating purpose-driven leadership. These strategies reflect a deep commitment to excellence. Ultimately, the future of manufacturing isn’t just defined by what we produce but by the people who make it possible. With India’s unique strengths, determination, and vision, the nation is taking the right steps in shaping the global manufacturing landscape.”

Frontline employees, who are the backbone of the manufacturing engine, are particularly impacted by this shift. At India’s Best Workplaces in Manufacturing, their engagement is driven by a culture that values their contributions, ensures fair evaluations, and provides clear opportunities for career growth. These workplaces are designed to be places where enjoyment and camaraderie are part of the daily experience, and where employees feel their efforts are recognized and rewarded. Leadership in these companies understands that the well-being of their frontline teams is integral to the overall success of the business.

Meanwhile, office-based employees, who play a key role in driving innovation and strategy, are engaged through deeper connections to the company’s purpose and a strong sense of trust in their leaders. These employees value leaders who prioritize emotional wellness and psychological safety. As they face unique challenges, such as ensuring alignment across teams and departments, these companies focus on attracting the right talent for critical roles, strengthening team dynamics, and providing robust leadership development programs. Together, these elements ensure that both the frontline and office-based employees are equipped to excel and lead in an environment where vision and impact align seamlessly.

However, even as these companies continue to foster positive and inclusive cultures, challenges remain. The voice of employees consistently highlights the need for more action around psychological safety, care, and equitable growth. Best Workplaces have responded by implementing mechanisms for regular feedback, ensuring fair task allocation, and introducing flexible shifts to accommodate the needs of their workforce.

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