The topic of extended workweeks has once again become a focal point of public and corporate discussions. L&T Chairman S. N. Subrahmanyan recently suggested a 90-hour workweek, following Infosys co-founder N. R. Narayana Murthy’s earlier advocacy for a 70-hour workweek. These statements have sparked widespread debate, drawing both support and criticism from various quarters, including employees, labor advocates, and industry professionals.

Adding to the ongoing discourse, Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director of Bajaj Auto, remarked, “Let the 90 hours start from the top.” His statement seems to challenge the practicality and fairness of extended work hours, suggesting that leadership should lead by example if such measures are to be considered.

The Argument for Extended Workweeks

Proponents of increased working hours argue that this approach could be instrumental in achieving greater productivity, especially in competitive and fast-paced industries. They believe extended workweeks could help India accelerate its economic growth and better compete on the global stage. Some key arguments include:

Enhanced Productivity: More hours potentially translate to more output, particularly in high-stakes industries like technology and manufacturing.

Economic Growth: A longer workweek could help businesses scale faster, driving GDP growth and enhancing India’s competitiveness globally.

Skill Development: Longer working hours may provide more opportunities for employees to gain experience and improve their skills.

Criticism and Concerns

The idea of extended workweeks has been met with significant resistance, especially from employees and labor rights organizations. Critics argue that such measures could lead to burnout, reduced work-life balance, and lower overall productivity in the long run. Concerns include:

Mental and Physical Health: Extended hours can cause stress, fatigue, and long-term health issues among employees.

Reduced Efficiency: Studies show that excessive working hours often lead to diminishing returns as employees struggle to maintain focus and efficiency.

Work-Life Balance: Longer hours encroach upon personal time, impacting family life and overall well-being.

Inequality in Implementation: Critics, including Rajiv Bajaj, highlight the potential unfairness in enforcing extended hours primarily on lower-level employees rather than top management.

Global Context

Globally, countries are moving in the opposite direction. Nations like Iceland and Sweden have experimented with reduced workweeks, reporting improvements in productivity and employee satisfaction. These models challenge the notion that longer hours are necessary for economic success.

A Balanced Approach

While some argue for the economic benefits of extended workweeks, a balanced approach may be more viable. Implementing flexible working hours, improving workplace efficiency, and encouraging better time management could achieve similar outcomes without overburdening employees.

The debate on extended workweeks highlights a broader issue of workplace dynamics and employee well-being. While leaders like Narayana Murthy and L&T Chairman see extended hours as a means to drive growth, voices like Rajiv Bajaj’s emphasize the importance of fairness and leadership accountability. As India continues its journey toward economic prominence, finding a sustainable and equitable approach to work will be crucial for long-term success.