Young Indians are increasingly looking for deeper and more meaningful relationships even as work pressures, exhaustion and digital interactions make it harder to feel genuinely connected, according to a new survey commissioned by Match Group and conducted by Ipsos.
The Match Group Human Connection Survey, covering 1,000 single Indians aged 18–45 across major metropolitan and Tier 1 cities, found that 35% of Indian singles feel lonely often or always. This comes even as 70% are actively working to build new social connections and 75% continue to socialise in person more than once a week.
Work pressures widen the connection gap
The survey suggests that loneliness among Indian singles is increasingly linked to the pressures of modern life rather than a lack of opportunities or willingness to socialise.
About 64% of Indian singles said they prioritise work or studies over their social life, while 55% said they are too exhausted after their daily tasks to socialise.
The digital environment is also contributing to what the survey describes as a gap between online and real-life connection. Some 58% of Indian singles said they feel connected to people online but lonely in real life.
Preference shifts towards deeper relationships
Despite these challenges, Indian singles continue to show a strong desire for meaningful relationships. About 72% said they prefer fewer but deeper connections with people, while 70% said they are actively working to build new social connections.
The findings indicate that singles are not necessarily withdrawing from relationships but are becoming more deliberate about the connections they want to develop.
This extends to romantic relationships as well. About 78% of respondents said they believe in true love, while 77% believe they will eventually find “the one”.
Long-term relationships also remain a priority. About 85% of Indian singles said they are looking for a relationship in the long term, with the proportion rising to 89% among Gen Z respondents.
Compatibility becomes more important
The survey also points to a greater focus on compatibility and long-term potential when choosing partners.
About 63% of Indian singles said they would rather keep looking than settle for an imperfect match. Meanwhile, 72% said they would only date people with whom they can see a long-term future.
Match Group Sr. Director, Regional Head, India & Middle East, Anukool Kumar, said the findings showed that young Indians were becoming more intentional about the kind of connections they wanted.
“The research shows that 35% of Indian singles feel lonely often or always, even as 70% are actively working to build new social connections and 72% say they prefer fewer but deeper connections,” Kumar said.
He said busy lifestyles and digital interactions could make genuine connection harder, while technology could help people discover relationships that are genuine, compatible and meaningful.
Dating apps emerge as a connection tool
Technology is increasingly becoming part of how Indian singles meet and build relationships. About 40% of Indian singles currently use a dating app, while 63% said dating apps help them feel more connected and less alone.
More than half, or 55%, said they are likely or very likely to use a dating app in the next 12 months. Meanwhile, 60% described online dating as exciting.
Safety remains a key concern
Trust and safety are also important considerations in online dating. About 60% of Indian singles said they are concerned about safety and inclusivity when dating online.
More than half, or 52%, said verified and authenticated profiles and strong safety measures are among the most important factors when choosing a dating app.
The findings suggest that while technology is expanding the ways people can meet, users increasingly want those interactions to translate into genuine and lasting relationships.
The Match Group Human Connection Survey was conducted by Ipsos across India, Japan, South Korea and Thailand to examine loneliness, social connection, relationships and dating among single young adults. In India, the survey covered 1,000 single adults aged 18–45 across major metropolitan and Tier 1 cities.