Work-life balance critical, says chartered accountants' apex body
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) on Monday announced the setting up of a dedicated group to suggest more stress management measures and would also introduce a counselling help desk against the backdrop of the death of a chartered accountant due to alleged work pressure.
ICAI president Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal said the institute strongly urged oganisations to implement balanced work policies that promoted employee health and reduced stress.
The ICAI has more than 4 lakh members and over 8 lakh students.
The institute will also develop peer support networks where members can share experiences, seek advice, and collaborate to address challenges related to stress management.
Chartered accountant Anna Sebastian Perayil recently died reportedly due to extreme work pressure. She worked with SR Batliboi, a member firm of EY Global.
The dedicated group would work on introducing measures to improve work-life balance and for managing stress within the profession, the ICAI said.
Also, a special counselling help desk would be introduced within the ICAI's national call centre (9997599975) that would be dedicated to assisting members with stress management and work-life balance concerns.
Among other measures, the ICAI, in collaboration with health institutions, would introduce stress management programmes. It would also work with industry partners to promote flexible work models.
ICAI president Ranjeet Kumar Agarwal said the institute strongly urged oganisations to implement balanced work policies that promoted employee health and reduced stress.
"The increasing demands placed on professionals across industries have raised widespread concerns regarding the detrimental effects of high-pressure environments on personal health and professional efficiency," the press note said.
According to the institute, it has proactively implemented various measures to support the well-being of its members and students, including webinars on stress management.
The institute already has a grievance redress cell, with efforts underway to enhance the system for more structured and empathetic resolutions.
