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The Economic Survey of India 2024-25 has ignited a fierce debate surrounding the optimal number of working hours, highlighting the potential detrimental effects of excessive work on both individual well-being and national economic productivity. The report, citing numerous studies, emphasizes the strong correlation between extended workweeks and significantly impaired mental health. The stark warning comes amidst a backdrop of prominent Indian business leaders advocating for dramatically increased work hours – proposals that have sparked considerable controversy and raised crucial questions about the nature of work-life balance in a rapidly developing economy.
Specifically, the survey points to research indicating that exceeding 60 hours of work per week poses substantial health risks. Data from the Sapien Labs Centre for Human Brain and Mind demonstrates a clear link between prolonged desk time (12 hours or more) and significantly lower mental well-being scores. This alarming finding suggests that the current push for 70-90 hour workweeks, championed by figures like Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy and L&T Chairman S N Subrahmanyan, could have widespread negative consequences for the mental health of India's workforce. The contrasting views of other prominent business leaders, such as Harsh Goenka of RPG Group and Anand Mahindra of the Mahindra Group, who prioritize productivity over sheer hours worked, underscore the depth and complexity of this issue.
Beyond the immediate impact on individual health, the Economic Survey draws a broader connection between work culture and national economic productivity. It suggests that fostering strong workplace relationships, a sense of purpose, and effective management can significantly reduce workday losses – potentially saving 2-3 days per month per employee. Conversely, toxic work environments characterized by poor management relationships and low workplace pride are linked to increased absenteeism and reduced overall output. These findings highlight the critical role of workplace culture in shaping not only employee well-being, but also national economic performance. The survey further underscores the substantial global economic cost of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, citing WHO data showing a staggering loss of 12 billion workdays annually, translating to a $1 trillion economic blow.
The debate surrounding the ideal number of working hours is not confined to India. The infamous ‘996 culture’ in China, which necessitates working from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week, serves as a cautionary tale. This practice, while once prevalent, has increasingly come under scrutiny due to its negative impacts on worker well-being. The Economic Survey's conclusion emphasizes the necessity for India to proactively address lifestyle choices and workplace culture from an early stage to prevent a similar trajectory. The potential for toxic work cultures and excessive hours to hinder economic growth is clearly acknowledged, underlining the critical need to find a balance between economic ambition and the health and well-being of the workforce.
The push for longer working hours in India reflects a complex interplay of factors, including intense competition, ambitious economic targets, and a culture that sometimes glorifies overwork. However, the Economic Survey provides compelling evidence that prioritizing productivity and fostering a healthy work environment is ultimately more beneficial than simply demanding longer hours. A holistic approach that addresses workplace culture, management styles, and employee well-being is crucial to achieving sustainable economic growth. Ignoring the mental health implications of excessively long workweeks risks undermining the very workforce that is essential to achieving India's economic aspirations. The debate highlights a fundamental need for a paradigm shift, moving away from a culture that equates long hours with productivity towards one that values employee well-being and supports sustainable working practices.
Source: Narayana Murthy wants 70 hours, L&T boss 90: Economic Survey says ‘brace for a breakdown’