Infosys co-founder N. R. Narayana Murthy has kicked off a fresh national debate over work culture after his suggestion of a 72-hour work week for young Indians likening it to China’s widely decried “9-9-6” system. During an interview with news channel Republic TV 79-year-old Murthy praised the grueling schedule: “There is a saying in China … 9 am to 9 pm six days a week … That is a 72-hour week” he said. According to Murthy only a robust work ethic can support accelerated development in the country. Murthy has previously stirred controversy in India with his support for a 70-hour work week with critics warning against negative implications for work-life balance and employee welfare. He has doubled down contending that young workers should “get a life and then worry about work-life balance” and hard work is a personal choice that young people make when they “aspire for the long-term.” Murthy went on to speak to the larger economic situation. While India has been enjoying a favorable growth - recently at 6.57% - Murthy stated that a “catch-up” with China’s economy would necessitate “extraordinary action” by all Indians including in corporate civil society and political spheres. “The job is not easy” he said urging Indians to hold themselves to a high standard because collective action would make or break the future rise of India. Murthys comments caused a lot of backlash on the internet. People worried that his suggestions would make workers stressed out hurt their mental health and make their lives less enjoyable. Many people believe that making Indians work more hours wont actually help. They argue that Indias workers dont produce as much per hour and the country already struggles with things like bad infrastructure expensive living costs and staff who are already very tired. Murthy has defended his position noting that he was only recommending - but not prescribing - a 72-hour work week and shared that in his early days he used to reach the office by 6:20 am and leave at 8:30 pm. He added that work culture should be a personal choice and shouldn’t be dictated by others. Murthy’s comments have thus drawn ire from netizens as India continues to weigh its priorities in balancing productivity and well-being.