India is leading the global Return-to-Office (RTO) movement, with 82 per cent of employees currently under office-based work mandates and 83 per cent expressing positive sentiment toward the shift, according to JLL’s Workplace Preference Barometer 2025. This enthusiasm positions India well above the Asia-Pacific average of 64 per cent, underscoring the country’s progress in creating people-centric, flexible, and productive workplaces.

The technology, BFSI, and education sectors are at the forefront of this RTO trend, with Indian corporates excelling in designing work environments that balance collaboration, flexibility, and well-being.

“This is a pivotal moment for Indian organizations,” said JipuJose James, Managing Director, Project & Development Services (PDS), India, JLL. “As hybrid work matures, employees are embracing offices designed for human connection and innovation. At the same time, flexibility remains a decisive factor—6 in 10 employees cite it as their top priority when selecting a new employer.”

The report also reveals India’s rapid AI adoption, with 96 per cent of employees engaging with AI tools—well above the regional average—demonstrating a workforce ready for the next wave of digital transformation.

However, challenges persist: 54 per cent of employees report moderate to high levels of burnout, emphasizing the need for organizations to strengthen workplace well-being and flexibility strategies. JLL recommends a three-pronged approach to enhance productivity:

As flexibility becomes a core determinant of talent attraction and retention, forward-thinking organizations that blend productivity, learning, and well-being will define India’s next decade of workplace excellence.