Blog Post by: Karun Tyagi

Recently, the debate over working hours in India has been reignited by statements from influential leaders. Infosys founder call for a 70-hour workweek and L&T Chairman’s even more ambitious 90-hour suggestion have sparked sharp reactions. While some view these proposals as a way to boost national productivity and growth, others see them as an unrealistic and unsustainable approach, especially in the modern workplace.

The crux of the matter is sustainability, a concept we often associate with environmental or economic goals. However, true sustainability rests on three interconnected pillars: Planet, Profit, and People. In the debate about working hours, the focus has largely been on profit and economic growth, while the critical aspect of people—their health, well-being, and productivity—has taken a backseat. Let’s explore why this imbalance needs correction and whether India’s working hour policies should align with international standards or chart their own path.

The People Pillar: Why It Matters More Than Ever

At its core, sustainability is about creating systems that can endure over time without depleting resources—and people are one of the most vital resources in any organization or nation. Extended work hours may temporarily boost output, but at what cost? Research consistently shows that overwork leads to diminishing returns due to burnout, mental health issues, and even physical health challenges such as heart disease.

Key implications of neglecting the People pillar:

1. Decreased Productivity: While it may seem counterintuitive, longer hours often lead to reduced efficiency. Countries with shorter workweeks, like Germany and the Netherlands, consistently report higher productivity levels compared to nations with longer hours.
2. Impact on Health and Well-being: The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified long working hours as a leading occupational health risk, contributing to conditions like stroke and ischemic heart disease.
3. Talent Retention Challenges: In a competitive global market, the next generation of workers values flexibility, work-life balance, and mental well-being. Policies promoting overwork may drive talent away rather than attract it.
4. Gender Equity Setbacks: Long work hours disproportionately affect women, who often bear the brunt of unpaid domestic responsibilities, exacerbating gender disparities in the workplace.

Learning from Global Standards

Many developed nations have adopted policies that prioritize work-life balance. For instance:

• European Union: The EU Working Time Directive caps the workweek at 48 hours, including overtime, and mandates at least four weeks of paid annual leave.
• Japan: Once infamous for overwork and “karoshi” (death by overwork), Japan has implemented measures like limiting overtime and encouraging employees to take paid leave.
• United States: Unlike many other developed nations, the U.S. does not have federally mandated paid vacation time or a maximum workweek for most workers. However, cultural shifts toward flexible work arrangements, including remote work and flexible hours, are gaining momentum, driven by market forces and individual company policies.

These examples highlight a growing recognition that sustainable growth is tied to healthier, happier workforces. The question remains: should India adopt similar standards, or tailor its policies to its unique socio-economic landscape?

Developing India-Specific Standards

India’s context is distinct, shaped by its burgeoning economy, large informal workforce, and evolving corporate culture. While international frameworks can offer valuable insights, blindly copying them may overlook local needs and challenges. Instead, India could:

1. Balance Flexibility and Structure: Develop industry-specific guidelines that allow for flexibility without overburdening workers.
2. Prioritize Labor Reforms: Strengthen implementation of existing labor laws and ensure protections for informal and gig workers, who form a significant part of the workforce.
3. Promote a Results-Oriented Culture: Shift the focus from hours worked to outcomes achieved. This can help dismantle the culture of presenteeism and encourage smarter work practices.
4. Incentivize Employee Well-being: Companies that invest in employee wellness programs and promote work-life balance could receive tax benefits or other incentives.
5. Adopt Technology Thoughtfully: Leverage automation and digital tools to reduce repetitive tasks, freeing up time for employees to focus on higher-value activities.

Conclusion: A Call for Holistic Sustainability

As India charts its path toward becoming a global economic powerhouse, it’s essential to remember that progress isn’t measured solely by GDP or corporate profits. The well-being of its people—the backbone of its workforce—must be at the forefront of this journey.

Long working hours may have been a necessity during industrial revolutions of the past, but today’s world demands smarter, not harder, work. True sustainability lies in creating systems where organizations thrive without overextending their most valuable resource: their people.

India has an opportunity to redefine productivity and success by embracing policies that align with its unique needs while prioritizing the holistic well-being of its workforce. Let’s ensure that in the quest for growth, we don’t lose sight of what makes it meaningful: the people who drive it.

Image by: Freepik