Trending: Infosys tells employees to avoid overtime, focus on work-life balance; contrasts Murthy’s 70-hour workweek remark
PTC Web Desk: In a move that contrasts sharply with co-founder Narayana Murthy’s previous advocacy for a 70-hour workweek, Indian IT giant Infosys is now actively promoting work-life balance among its employees. The Bengaluru-headquartered company has launched an internal campaign to discourage excessive working hours, especially in a remote work setting.
As part of the initiative, Infosys has been sending personalised emails to employees whose working hours exceeded the company’s standard in the previous month. The company expects employees to work 9.15 hours per day, five days a week, and flags instances where this limit is crossed, particularly during work-from-home periods.
According to a report by The Economic Times, Infosys HR has been closely tracking the time spent by employees while working remotely. Employees receiving these emails are being reminded not only to stick to regular hours but also to prioritise their health and well-being.
“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,” the HR emails reportedly state. “We understand that work demands and deadlines can sometimes lead to longer hours. However, it is important to maintain a balanced work-life schedule to enhance productivity and overall happiness.”
The emails also include wellness recommendations such as: Taking regular breaks during the workday; communicating with managers if feeling overwhelmed; delegating tasks or seeking help with prioritisation; recharging during off-hours and limiting work-related communications outside working time.
This initiative follows Infosys’ shift to a hybrid work model. Since November 20, 2023, the company has implemented a return-to-office policy requiring employees to work from the office for at least 10 days a month. With a workforce of around 323,500, Infosys’ HR teams have since been monitoring employee work hours more systematically, especially during remote workdays.
Murthy’s earlier comments on long work hours
The campaign stands in contrast to views expressed by Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy in 2023. Speaking at the Indian Chamber of Commerce’s centenary celebration in Kolkata, Murthy had proposed a 70-hour workweek, arguing that India’s youth must work harder to lift the country out of poverty. “If we are not in a position to work hard, then who will work hard?” he had said, while also questioning the idea of work-life balance, advocating instead for dedication and sacrifice.
His remarks sparked national debate on work culture and employee health, particularly in the Indian tech sector. However, in January 2024, Murthy clarified that the 70-hour workweek was his personal choice, and should not be imposed on others. “There's nobody who can say you should do this or not do it,” he said at the time.
- With inputs from agencies
