In a recent podcast interview, Infosys founder NR Narayana Murthy raised eyebrows and ignited a lively debate on social media with his comments about India’s work productivity. Murthy suggested that the younger generation in India should be prepared to work a minimum of 70 hours per week if the country wants to compete with emerging economies.
During the inaugural episode of 3one4 Capital’s podcast ‘The Record,’ Narayana Murthy expressed his concerns about India’s low work productivity.
He stated, “Somehow our youth has the habit of taking not-so-desirable habits from the West, and then… not helping the country. India’s work productivity is one of the lowest in the world. Unless we improve our work productivity, unless we reduce corruption in the government at some level, unless we reduce the delays in our bureaucracy in taking decisions, we will not be able to compete with those countries that have made tremendous progress. So therefore, my request is that our youngsters must say, ‘This is my country, I’d like to work 70 hours a week.'”
Narayana Murthy also cited the examples of post-World War II Germany and Japan, where people worked extra hours for a certain period, contributing to their countries’ rapid development. He emphasized the need for discipline and improved work productivity to ensure India’s progress.
While some supported Murthy’s viewpoint, others expressed reservations. Ola Cabs co-founder Bhavish Aggarwal echoed Murthy’s sentiments, stating, “Totally agree with Mr. Murthy’s views. It’s not our moment to work less and entertain ourselves. Rather, it’s our moment to go all in and build in one generation what other countries have built over many generations!”
Totally agree with Mr Murthy’s views. It’s not our moment to work less and entertain ourselves. Rather it’s our moment to go all in and build in 1 generation what other countries have built over many generations! https://t.co/KsXQbjAhSM
— Bhavish Aggarwal (@bhash) October 26, 2023
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On the other hand, some entrepreneurs disagreed with the idea of working longer hours as the sole solution to productivity issues. Ronnie Screwvala, founder of upGrad, emphasized the importance of quality over quantity, stating, “Boosting productivity isn’t just about working longer hours. It’s about getting better at what you do – upskilling, having a positive work environment, and fair pay for the work done. Quality of work done is more valuable than clocking in more hours.”
Boosting productivity isn’t just about working longer hours. It’s about getting better at what you do – Upskilling, having a positive work environment and fair pay for the work done.
Quality of work done > clocking in more hours https://t.co/mbEQA0TriA
— Ronnie Screwvala (@RonnieScrewvala) October 26, 2023
Sajjan Jindal, chairman and managing director of JSW Group, supported Narayana Murthy’s stance, pointing out that the traditional 5-day work week culture might not be suitable for India. He urged dedication over burnout, saying, “It’s not about burnout, it’s about dedication. We have to make India an economic superpower that we can all be proud of.”
I whole heartedly endorse Mr. Narayana Murthy’s statement. It’s not about burnout, it’s about dedication. We have to make India an economic superpower that we can all be proud of. #India2047
— Sajjan Jindal (@sajjanjindal) October 27, 2023
Adding to the discussion, Sudha Murthy, author and head of Infosys Foundation, came to her husband’s defense. She highlighted that Mr. Murthy had worked 80 to 90 hours a week throughout his career and was merely sharing his personal experience.
“He has worked 80 to 90 hours a week, so, he doesn’t know what less than that is. He believes in real hard work and he lived like that. Hence, he has told what he felt,” Sudha Murthy said, adding that her husband believes in passion and “real hard work”.
Narayana Murthy’s remarks have sparked an important conversation about work culture and productivity in India. While there are varying opinions on the matter, it’s clear that the desire to see India succeed and compete on a global scale is a shared goal among these prominent figures in the Indian business community. As the debate continues, the nation’s future workforce may find new ways to balance productivity and well-being in their pursuit of progress.
