A comprehensive new survey, The Times of India India Habit Index 2025, has mapped the evolving priorities and daily behaviors of Indian consumers. The study provides a detailed snapshot of shifting habits across crucial lifestyle domains including health, entertainment, personal finance, travel, and notably, food. The findings reveal a nation increasingly focused on physical well-being, mindful consumption, and authentic experiences.
Health, Wealth, and Screen Time: The New Indian Mantra
The survey highlights a strong emphasis on personal health and financial discipline. For 35% of respondents, physical fitness emerged as their biggest priority. Furthermore, 40% stated that visible results from their fitness regime mattered the most, indicating a goal-oriented approach to wellness.
In the realm of entertainment, digital platforms continue to dominate leisure time. 39% of Indians spend most of their screen time on OTT platforms and movies. A significant 53% are consciously trying to reduce aimless scrolling, while 43% use online videos and shows specifically to relax and unwind.
Financial prudence is on the rise, with 58% of respondents regularly budgeting and tracking their expenses. A disciplined approach to money is prevalent, as noted by 56% of those surveyed. For their financial goals in 2025, 38% have prioritized travel and personal milestones.
The Indian Plate: Cravings, Comfort, and Culinary Exploration
The India Habit Index 2025 delved deeply into the nation's food habits, uncovering what drives culinary choices. When deciding where or what to eat, a dominant 43.53% are guided primarily by their immediate craving and taste mood. Recommendations and reviews influence 19.35%, while value for money, exploration of new cuisines, and health/nutrition account for 15.40%, 10.87%, and 10.85% respectively.
Comfort food is the overwhelming favorite, hitting the mood for 64.74% of people most often. Spicy and flavorful options come next at 23.25%, followed by sweet indulgence (4.91%), healthy light meals (4.88%), and fast, easy options (2.22%).
Trust in food discovery remains personal. Nearly half (49.34%) rely on friends and family for trying something new, whereas 19.66% trust food influencers. Restaurant ratings (16.36%), local people's advice (9.58%), and online communities (5.06%) also play a role.
The ultimate measure of a great food experience is clear: taste quality is king for 59.71% of Indians. Price fairness (13.41%), presentation and ambience (13.30%), portion size (11.35%), and service experience (2.23%) follow. For their next culinary adventure, over half (51.74%) are most interested in exploring Regional Indian cuisines, far surpassing interest in Mediterranean (21.46%), Japanese (11.50%), Korean (8.99%), or Mexican (6.32%).
Optimism, News, and Share-Worthy Moments
The survey also captured the national mood and social habits. A significant 61% of respondents actively follow daily news updates, with television news channels being the primary source for 33%. Looking ahead, 45% express high optimism about India's overall direction in 2025.
In travel, the primary motive for 52% of travellers is seeking relaxation and escape. Social media sharing of travel experiences is heavily influenced by visuals, with 56% saying memorable aesthetics make them most likely to post.
Finally, on healthy eating, fresh ingredients (33.90%) and balanced meals (41.44%) are considered most important. Other factors include low oil/sugar content (12.65%), protein content (7.22%), and portion control (4.79%).
The India Habit Index 2025 paints a picture of a consumer base that is more intentional, health-conscious, and digitally-savvy, while holding onto deep-rooted preferences for comfort, taste, and trusted personal advice.
