A salary increase may lift disposable income, but it does little to calm fears around job continuity, according to the latest अ-Nishchit Index 2.0 released by Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance.
The study finds that concerns over income disruption due to job instability and rising living costs rank eighth among overall worries. Among anxieties perceived as controllable, the issue rises to fifth place. Notably, employment linked uncertainty is not confined to lower income households. Even affluent NCCS A respondents report persistent concern over income continuity.
Participants cited sector volatility, recurring restructuring cycles, the rise of gig style contracts and wage growth failing to keep pace with inflation as key drivers of unease. Traditional indicators of stability such as full time employment and seniority are increasingly seen as less dependable in a shifting labour market.
The research also highlights a strong correlation between financial preparedness and perceived security. Households holding four or more financial products report significantly lower employment related anxiety compared to those with fewer instruments. The findings suggest that diversification and adequate coverage offer a stronger buffer against uncertainty than income growth alone.
The report underscores the need for structured financial resilience, including term protection, comprehensive health cover, emergency reserves and long term savings aligned to life goals. As India’s economy expands, the Index points to a paradox: macro growth is not automatically translating into personal financial confidence.
The findings are based on perception led responses gathered through a study commissioned by Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance and validated by Drshti Strategic Research Services.