A recent comprehensive survey indicates that while South India consistently prioritizes healthy eating habits, significant concerns persist regarding mental and financial wellbeing across the region. The ManipalCigna India Health Quotient (IHQ) 2026 report highlights a growing awareness of preventive health among urban Indians but points to critical gaps in overall holistic wellness.
Healthy Eating Habits Strong in South India
According to the IHQ 2026, 72% of respondents in South India prioritize a healthy and balanced diet, marking a strong regional shift towards healthier lifestyle choices. This focus is even more pronounced in cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad, where 75% of residents place healthy eating among their top physical health priorities. These findings underscore a robust commitment to physical health practices within the southern states.
Mental and Financial Wellbeing Remain Challenged
Despite the strong emphasis on physical health, the survey identified notable weaknesses in mental and financial wellbeing. South India recorded an overall health score of 63 out of 100, slightly below the national average of 65. Nationally, physical health emerged as the strongest dimension with a score of 68, while financial health remained the weakest at 62.
Mental resilience also showed concerning trends, with only 49% of respondents reporting strong focus and clarity of mind. Furthermore, just 47% expressed confidence in their ability to adapt to sudden changes, indicating ongoing challenges in mental health and stress management.
Health Insurance Linked to Higher Wellbeing Scores
The survey also revealed a significant correlation between health insurance ownership and higher wellbeing scores. Urban Indians with health insurance achieved an India Health Quotient score of 68 out of 100, compared to 62 among those without insurance. This six-point “Wellbeing Premium” was consistent across various demographics, including age groups, regions, genders, and stress levels, suggesting that financial protection against healthcare costs plays a crucial role in overall peace of mind.
Sapna Desai, Chief Marketing Officer at ManipalCigna Health Insurance, commented on the findings, stating, “South India stands out for its focus on healthy eating, with 72% prioritizing a balanced diet, rising to 75% in Bengaluru and Hyderabad. However, this physical discipline does not fully offset everyday pressures. Across regions, we also see that health insurance ownership helps narrow wellbeing gaps, reinforcing that protection is an important part of overall wellbeing.”
Conducted by YouGov India for ManipalCigna Health Insurance, the IHQ 2026 survey gathered insights from 2,600 respondents across 16 cities between December 2025 and January 2026. The study assessed self-assessed wellbeing across five dimensions: physical, mental, financial, occupational, and social health, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of health beyond just physical fitness.