Indian Employees: High on Hours, Low on Productivity

Business tycoons want the youth to work longer hours for success and nation-building. During a conference, Infosys founder Narayana Murthy asserted that longer hours are essential for enhancing productivity and competitiveness. Supporters of Murthy's suggestion argue that countries like Japan and Germany have thrived through cultures of dedication and long working hours.  

They believe adopting a similar work ethic in India could propel the nation to global economic leadership.

As the debate unfolds, Outlook Business delves into the data surrounding work hours and the productivity of Indian employees.

India already ranks among the most overworked nations, with 51 per cent of employees working over 49 hours per week.

Currently, a typical Indian employee works for 47 hours per week, more than those in other major economies including China, US, Japan and UK.

Moreover, this extra work is being done for lower wages. Monthly minimum wage in India is $220 as opposed to $502 in China and $1160 in US. The monthly minimum wage in Japan and UK exceeds $1500.

And despite that India continues to rank low in labour productivity.

According to ILO estimates, working long hours (≥ 55 hours/week) is the leading cause of workplace deaths. India is at the top of the countries with the highest workplace deaths.

Following the demise of Anna Sebastian Perayil, an Ernst & Young (EY) employee, who died from the stress caused by backbreaking workload, the proposal for long working hours faced significant backlash.

This tragic incident highlighted severe implications of excessive work hours, emphasising that such a culture can lead to burnout and health risks.