The perception-based study, validated by Drshti Strategic Research Services, found that perceived uncertainty scores remain high at around 78-80 when households have one to three insurance policies. This figure only drops to around 73 after the four-product threshold has been crossed. Investment portfolios show a parallel pattern, with uncertainty decreasing to roughly 75 with four or more positions.
The index measured perceived uncertainty against the national baseline score of 79. Average portfolios are currently stuck at around two instruments, leaving most households with vulnerable protection despite initially feeling secure.
Aditya Birla Sun Life attributes the turning point to completeness of coverage and not mere product accumulation. The company identified four essential components: term life insurance for dependent protection, comprehensive health coverage with passengers, liquidity in emergency funds and targeted long-term investments. Missing a piece forces households to liquidate growth assets during emergencies or underfund targets after income disruptions, behavior that perpetuates high levels of uncertainty.
The insurer emphasized that the switch from two to four products requires integrated planning rather than fragmented purchases. Annual portfolio reviews, inflation-adjusted targets and automatic contributions help reduce decision-making challenges and improve financial resilience.
Mumbai-based Aditya Birla Sun Life Insurance, a joint venture between Aditya Birla Group and Canada’s Sun Life Financial, manages assets under management of ₹1.04 lakh crore as of September 2025. The company operates through over 440 branches and serves 28.64 lakh active customers.
The study’s findings come as Indian households navigate inflation and volatile markets, with systematic financial planning emerging as a key differentiator in perceived security.
Published on January 28, 2026
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