New Delhi, Feb 3, 2025 – The Indian government has officially denied rumors of an increase in weekly working hours to 70 or 90 hours, stating that no such proposal is under consideration. The clarification comes in response to widespread concerns from employees, trade unions, and industry experts, who feared a shift towards longer and more exhaustive workweeks.
Background of the Controversy
Speculation regarding extended work hours began circulating after certain industry leaders hinted at the possibility of longer workweeks to boost productivity and align with global standards. Some reports even suggested that the government was considering amendments to existing labor laws to allow workweeks exceeding 60 hours.
🔹 Key Concerns Raised:
✔️ Employee Well-being: Fear of increased stress and burnout.
✔️ Labour Law Violations: Existing rules cap work hours at 48 per week.
✔️ Work-Life Balance: Potential disruption to personal and family life.
Govt’s Official Statement
In a formal statement, the Ministry of Labour and Employment confirmed that no discussions are underway regarding an increase in working hours beyond the current legal framework.
🗣️ Govt Spokesperson’s Statement:
“The government has no intention of increasing the weekly working hours to 70 or 90. The existing labour laws ensure fair work conditions, and any such drastic change would be against worker welfare.”
Current Labour Laws on Working Hours
India’s labour laws, including the Factories Act, 1948, and the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020, regulate the maximum working hours per week:
✔️ Standard Weekly Work Hours: 48 hours (8 hours per day, 6 days a week).
✔️ Overtime Regulations: Beyond 48 hours, additional hours require overtime pay.
✔️ Work-Life Balance: Ensures mandatory rest days and leave provisions.
With these laws in place, an increase to 70 or 90 hours per week would require major legislative changes, which the government has categorically denied.
Trade Unions & Public Reaction
Despite the clarification, trade unions and employee associations have remained vigilant, urging the government to provide continuous assurance that labour protections will remain intact.
👥 A leading trade union leader stated:
“Even though the government has denied the move, we remain cautious. Any such policy shift would have disastrous effects on workers’ health and productivity.”
Many employees also took to social media to express relief at the government’s statement, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance.
Industry Perspective: Balancing Growth & Employee Welfare
While some business leaders advocate for increased working hours to boost economic growth, experts argue that productivity does not depend solely on hours worked. Instead, factors like automation, flexible work policies, and employee satisfaction play a more crucial role.
📈 Industry Expert’s Opinion:
“Increasing work hours alone does not guarantee economic success. A motivated and well-rested workforce is far more productive than an overworked one.”
Global Comparison: How India Stands
While countries like China and Japan have long work hours, nations such as Germany and the Netherlands have shown that shorter workweeks with high efficiency lead to better economic output. India’s approach focuses on maintaining a balance between productivity and employee well-being.
🔹 Work Hour Limits in Other Countries:
✔️ United States: 40 hours/week (overtime beyond that).
✔️ Germany: 35-40 hours/week with high productivity.
✔️ Japan: Historically high work hours, but shifting towards work-life balance reforms.
Conclusion: No Immediate Policy Change, Focus on Fair Work Practices
The Indian government’s clarification that there is no proposal to increase work hours to 70 or 90 per week has eased concerns among employees. However, the discussion around workplace efficiency and flexibility continues. Stakeholders are now urging policymakers to focus on improving productivity through innovation, rather than prolonging work hours.
