Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy has once again ignited a nationwide conversation about work culture in India by advocating for 72-hour work weeks, drawing parallels with China's controversial 9-9-6 system.
The Controversial Proposal
During a recent discussion, the veteran tech entrepreneur suggested that young professionals should be prepared to work 72 hours per week to enhance India's global competitiveness. Murthy specifically referenced China's 9-9-6 work culture, where employees typically work from 9 AM to 9 PM, six days a week.
This isn't the first time Murthy has expressed such views, but his latest comments have gained significant traction amid growing discussions about work-life balance and employee wellbeing in post-pandemic India.
China's 9-9-6 System: Banned but Persistent
Murthy's reference to China's work culture comes with an important historical context. In 2021, China's Supreme People's Court formally declared the 9-9-6 system illegal, recognizing it as a violation of labor laws.
However, industry observers note that questions remain about how consistently this ruling has been implemented across various sectors in China. The gap between official policy and ground reality continues to be a subject of discussion among labor rights activists and business analysts.
Mixed Reactions and Broader Implications
The response to Murthy's comments has been predictably polarized. While some business leaders have supported his emphasis on productivity and national competitiveness, many young professionals and HR experts have expressed concerns about the potential impact on mental health and work-life balance.
The debate touches upon broader questions about sustainable work practices, employee rights, and the kind of work culture India wants to promote as it positions itself as a global economic powerhouse.
As discussions continue across social media platforms and corporate boardrooms, Murthy's comments have undoubtedly succeeded in bringing work culture back into the national spotlight at a time when flexible work arrangements are becoming increasingly common.
