The statistics tell a troubling story about India’s work culture — despite a slight decrease over the past five years, over half of the workforce still labours for at least 49 hours a week. This figure positions India among the nations with the longest working hours globally, surpassing not only its South Asian neighbours but also many developed countries. The repercussions of such a relentless work culture are becoming increasingly evident, particularly among the nation’s youth and women.
The tragic death of 26-year-old chartered accountant Anna Sebastian Perayil has put the spotlight on this issue. Just four months into her tenure at EY, Anna succumbed to the overwhelming pressures of her role, a stark reminder of the human cost of our productivity driven ethos. In her mother’s poignant letter to the firm’s leadership, she described the sleepless nights, relentless deadlines, and the normalisation of working late hours — conditions that many young professionals face but seldom discuss openly.
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Human cost of work culture
Data from the International Labour Organisation reveals that while the share of employees working over 49 hours weekly decreased from 63.4% in 2018 to 50.5% in 2023, this still remains alarmingly high. For comparison, only 11.8% of American workers and 8.9% of British workers clock similar hours. Such discrepancies highlight not just a national issue, but a cultural one, where overwork is often equated with dedication and success.
The implications of long working hours extend far beyond fatigue. Reports indicate that burnout affects over 62% of Indian employees — three times the global average. This phenomenon is exacerbated for young women, who not only contend with long hours but also overcome professional hurdles at the workplace.
The percentage of women working over 49 hours a week has risen in the last five years, a trend that highlighted the increasing pressure on female professionals in sectors like IT and finance. As women strive for advancement in male-dominated industries, the lack of representation — only 8.5% in professional roles — compounds the stress they face. Many women are finding themselves in an environment where they feel compelled to overwork to prove their worth, leading to chronic stress and anxiety.
Implications for employees’ mental health
Furthermore, the National Crime Records Bureau data reveals a grim reality: suicides linked to professional stress accounted for a significant portion of total cases, with a troubling rise among young people. In 2022, individuals aged 18-30 represented 38.5% of such tragic outcomes, indicating that the workplace is not just a source of income but a battleground for mental health. The rising rates of mental health issues among young professionals signal an urgent need for systemic change.
There is a need to question the narrative that glorifies overwork. Leaders in corporate India often boast about their gruelling schedules, inadvertently setting a benchmark that equates long hours with success. This culture not only diminishes the quality of life for individuals but also stifles creativity and innovation. The assumption that longer hours equate to greater output must be challenged, particularly in light of research suggesting that productivity declines after a certain number of working hours. A well-rested employee is often more innovative and efficient than one pushing through exhaustion.
Need for change in corporate culture
The call for better work-life balance is not merely a matter of employee welfare. It is also crucial for long-term business sustainability. Studies from around the world show that companies that prioritise employee well-being see lower turnover rates, higher morale, and increased productivity. For instance, organisations like Google and Microsoft have adopted flexible work schedules and emphasise mental health resources, leading to more satisfied and engaged employees.
Moreover, the corporates need to address the issue of presenteeism, where employees feel pressured to be physically present at work despite not being productive. This not only wastes company resources but also perpetuates a cycle of overwork that can lead to burnout. Companies must create a culture that values results over hours spent in the office.
To address this crisis, both corporate policies and societal attitudes must evolve. Companies should implement strict limits on working hours, promote mental health resources, and foster an environment that encourages employees to take breaks and respect personal time. For instance, mandatory ‘no meeting’ days could be introduced, allowing employees to focus on their work without the constant pressure of interruptions. Additionally, there should be a concerted effort to educate employees about their rights under labour laws, which currently stipulate a 48-hour workweek. Awareness programs and workshops can help empower workers to advocate for themselves.
The impact of technology also cannot be overlooked. With the rise of remote work, the boundary between personal and professional life has blurred. Many employees find themselves working outside traditional hours, often feeling unable to disconnect. Organisations must recognise this challenge and implement policies that encourage a clear separation between work and home life, such as establishing core hours when employees are expected to be available and encouraging them to unplug afterward.
Anna’s tragic story serves as a clarion call for corporate India. It is not just about protecting the bottom line; it is about preserving the very essence of our workforce. Let us not allow the memory of those lost to the pressures of overwork to fade without meaningful change. We must advocate for a future where work is a source of fulfilment, not despair — a future that recognises the humanity behind every statistic. It is time to prioritise well-being and redefine success for a healthier, more productive workforce.
To achieve this, we must embrace a broader societal shift. Policymakers should engage in meaningful dialogue with businesses, labour organisations, and mental health advocates to create comprehensive frameworks that promote worker well-being. This includes revising labour laws to reflect modern realities, such as remote work, and establishing stricter penalties for companies that violate these regulations. Let us commit to fostering a work environment that values human dignity over relentless productivity. Only then can we hope to create a healthier, more balanced future for all workers in India.
Anil Nair is Founder and Editor, Policy Circle.