New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) – The Indian government has clarified that it has no plans to increase the maximum weekly working hours to 70 or 90, dismissing recent proposals from corporate leaders advocating longer work hours.
Minister of State for Labour & Employment Shobha Karandlaje, in a written response to the Lok Sabha, confirmed that "no such proposal to increase the maximum working hours to 70 or 90 hours a week is under consideration." She further explained that labour regulations are enforced by both the central and state governments, as labour falls under the Concurrent List. While the Central Industrial Relations Machinery (CIRM) ensures compliance in central jurisdictions, state governments oversee enforcement within their respective territories.
However, Subrahmanyan’s statement faced backlash from industry leaders:
With the government taking a clear stand against extending work hours, the debate continues in corporate and policy circles, highlighting the delicate balance between productivity, economic growth, and employee well-being.
Minister of State for Labour & Employment Shobha Karandlaje, in a written response to the Lok Sabha, confirmed that "no such proposal to increase the maximum working hours to 70 or 90 hours a week is under consideration." She further explained that labour regulations are enforced by both the central and state governments, as labour falls under the Concurrent List. While the Central Industrial Relations Machinery (CIRM) ensures compliance in central jurisdictions, state governments oversee enforcement within their respective territories.
Current Labour Laws and Regulations
The existing Factories Act, 1948 and various Shops and Establishments Acts govern working conditions, including working hours and overtime. Most corporate establishments fall under the Shops and Establishments Act, regulating their work policies.Economic Survey Highlights Health Risks of Overwork
The discussion around extending work hours gained momentum after the Economic Survey 2024-25 warned against the adverse health effects of working beyond 60 hours per week. Citing studies, the survey highlighted that extended work hours contribute to poor mental well-being and increased health risks.- Research suggests that individuals working over 55-60 hours per week face serious health implications.
- Data from the Sapien Labs Centre for Human Brain and Mind revealed that people spending 12 or more hours daily at a desk experience significantly lower mental well-being.
- The survey also referred to a World Health Organization (WHO) study, estimating that depression and anxiety result in a global loss of 12 billion workdays annually, translating to a $1 trillion financial loss.
Corporate Debate on Extended Workweeks
The discussion on 70-90 hour workweeks intensified after Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Chairman SN Subrahmanyansuggested employees should work 90-hour weeks, including Sundays, instead of "sitting at home." His remarks followed Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy’s earlier 70-hour workweek proposal and Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani’s comment that excessive time at home could strain relationships.However, Subrahmanyan’s statement faced backlash from industry leaders:
- RPG Group Chairman Harsh Goenka warned that excessive work hours lead to burnout rather than productivity.
- Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra emphasized quality over quantity, urging a focus on productivity instead of sheer working hours.
- ITC Ltd Chairman Sanjiv Puri stressed that empowering employees was more effective than merely increasing their work hours.
Global Perspective: China's ‘996’ Work Culture
India’s work-life balance debate echoes China’s ‘996 culture’—a controversial 9 AM to 9 PM, six-day-a-week work schedule that has sparked significant discussions about worker well-being and productivity.With the government taking a clear stand against extending work hours, the debate continues in corporate and policy circles, highlighting the delicate balance between productivity, economic growth, and employee well-being.