Hindu Editorial Analysis : 2-November-2023
The recent statement made by Infosys founder Narayana Murthy advocating for a 70-hour workweek has ignited a nationwide discussion on working hours in India. This debate delves into historical perspectives, contrasting viewpoints, and global comparisons, shedding light on the complexities of balancing productivity and employee well-being.
Historical Evolution of Working Hours
- Late 19th Century: The first Indian Factories Act of 1891 aimed to regulate child labor and working conditions.
- Post-World War I: Recommendations from the International Labour Organisation led to a reduction in the weekly working hours to 60.
- Independent India: The Factories Act of 1948 established a 48-hour workweek and 9-hour workday for adults.
The New Labor Codes: Changes and Implications
- Weekly and Daily Caps: The new labor codes restrict weekly working hours to 48 and daily hours to 12.
- 4-Day Work Week: A novel approach allows a 4-day work week, entailing 12-hour shifts for each of the 4 days.
- Overtime Policy: Overtime hours increased from 50 to 125 hours, permitting employers to contact workers on weekends as required.
Support for Longer Working Hours
- Economic Advancement: Advocates argue that India’s unique circumstances necessitate longer work hours to achieve economic superpower status by 2047.
- Personal Development: Longer hours can be viewed as an investment in personal growth, allowing individuals to master their skills and enhance expertise.
Opposing Views on Extended Work Hours
- Low Salaries: Critics highlight low starting salaries for engineers in Indian tech firms, making the long hours financially burdensome.
- Health Concerns: Working without breaks can lead to severe health issues, as evidenced by WHO and ILO studies linking long hours to heart disease and stroke.
Global Perspectives on Working Hours
- Belgium’s Approach: Belgium implemented a 4-day work week without salary reduction in 2022, demonstrating a progressive stance on work-life balance.
- UK Experiment: Several UK companies embraced a 4-day work week trial, with 56 out of 61 deciding to continue post-trial due to its positive impact on employee well-being.
Why In News
Recently, the Infosys founder Narayana Murthy sparked a huge debate over working hours by suggesting that the young generation should work 70 hours a week, igniting discussions about work-life balance and productivity in the modern workforce.
MCQs about The Great Indian Working Hours Debate
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What was the historical significance of the Indian Factories Act of 1891?
A. Regulated working conditions for adults
B. Addressed child labor and working conditions
C. Introduced a 48-hour workweek
D. Established a 9-hour workday
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According to the new labor codes, what is the maximum weekly working hours cap in India?
A. 40 hours
B. 48 hours
C. 56 hours
D. 60 hours
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What was the outcome of the UK’s experiment with the 4-day work week trial?
A. 45 companies decided to continue with the 4-day work week
B. 50 companies reported increased absenteeism
C. 56 companies chose to continue with the 4-day work week
D. 61 companies reverted to the traditional 5-day work week
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What health issues are associated with working long hours, according to the WHO and ILO report mentioned in the essay?
A. Respiratory problems
B. Digestive disorders
C. Heart disease and stroke
D. Musculoskeletal issues
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