Is India heading toward 90-hour work week? Check Centre's response
04 Feb 2025

The Indian government has clarified its position on the raging debate of extending work hours.

In a written response to the Lok Sabha on Monday, it said there are no plans to increase the maximum working hours.

The clarification comes amid recent suggestions from business leaders such as L&T's SN Subrahmanyan and Infosys's Narayana Murthy, who proposed longer work hours to boost productivity.

No consideration for 70-90 hours workweeks
Government's stance

Minister of State for Labor and Employment, Shobha Karandlaje, clarified the government's position.

She said, "No such proposal to increase the maximum working hours to 70 or 90 hours a week is under consideration of the government."

India's average workweek is currently around 46.7 hours according to data from the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

Enforcement of labor laws in India
Labor regulations

Karandlaje further explained that labor is a subject under the Concurrent List and enforcement of labor laws is done by both state and central governments in their respective jurisdictions.

The existing labor laws regulate working conditions, including hours and overtime, through provisions of the Factories Act 1948 and the Shops and Establishments Acts of individual state governments.

Most establishments, including in the corporate sector, are governed by these acts.

Business leaders divided over longer working hours
Industry debate

The government's response comes amid a raging debate on extended working hours.

L&T chief Subrahmanyan had recently suggested that employees should work up to 90 hours per week, including Sundays.

The statement echoed Infosys co-founder Murthy's earlier suggestion of a 70-hour workweek.

However, the proposals have been criticized by other business leaders who prioritize quality of work and productivity over long working hours.

Concerns over health effects of extended working hours
Health impact

The pre-Budget Economic Survey released last Friday also highlighted the negative health impacts of long working hours.

It noted that spending extended periods at a desk can harm mental well-being.

The survey cited studies showing adverse health effects when work hours exceed 55-60 per week and stated that individuals who spend 12 or more hours at a desk have significantly lower mental well-being scores.

Global comparison of average weekly working hours
International perspective

The Economic Survey also compared India's average weekly working hours with other countries.

India, along with Germany, Vietnam, and the UK, has one of the highest averages at 48 hours per week.

In contrast, countries like the US, South Korea, Japan, and Indonesia have an average workweek of 40 hours.

The concept of work-life balance and optimal working hours is a topic of interest globally.