Infosys promotes 9.15-hour, 5-day workweek, counters 70-hour idea

Tech giant Infosys has launched an internal campaign to promote work-life balance among employees, particularly targeting those working remotely. In a move aimed at curbing overwork, the company’s human resources department is actively tracking work hours and sending reminder emails to employees who consistently exceed the company’s standard working schedule of 9.15 hours per day, five days a week.

According to a report by The Economic Times, employees working beyond regular hours receive an email that outlines their remote work patterns, including the number of days worked, total hours logged, and daily averages. The emails gently caution that prolonged overwork, especially in remote settings, may lead to health risks and reduced long-term productivity. “We must work for 9.15 hours a day for five days a week, and if we overshoot this while working remotely, it prompts a trigger,” an Infosys employee told ET anonymously.

Context: The 70-Hour Workweek Debate

This initiative gains significance in light of a broader national conversation on work hours, triggered by Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy’s controversial remark advocating a 70-hour workweek to boost India’s productivity. While his comment drew backlash for promoting a burnout culture, Murthy later clarified that he never meant to enforce such hours and that hard work should be voluntary.

The debate intensified further when an undated video of L&T Chairman SN Subrahmanyan surfaced, suggesting a 90-hour workweek, stirring additional concern over India’s corporate work culture.

Infosys, however, appears to be distancing itself from such ideas by focusing on employee well-being. The emails reportedly say:

“While we appreciate your commitment, we also believe that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for both your well-being and long-term professional success.”

Employees are advised to take regular breaks, speak to managers if overwhelmed, and reduce after-hours work-related interactions. The guidance stresses the importance of delegating tasks and recharging outside work hours, creating a supportive ecosystem for long-term performance.

Broader Implications

Infosys currently employs around 323,500 people. As of November 2023, the company’s return-to-office policy mandates a minimum of 10 office days per month, allowing flexibility while ensuring team cohesion.

Concerns over employee well-being are growing across India’s corporate sector. A number of recent studies and media reports have highlighted the increased health risks, particularly heart-related ailments, among young professionals due to excessive stress and poor lifestyle habits.

Even in Parliament, the issue was raised. In April 2024, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge questioned the government on steps being taken to manage workplace stress. In response, Minister of State for Labour and Employment Shobha Karandlaje stated that state laws regulate working hours, and highlighted the government’s awareness of the issue.

Infosys’ move to uphold work-hour discipline and employee health sends a clear signal—it is possible to aim for productivity without sacrificing well-being.