L&T’s 90-Hour Demand: A Modern-Day Form of Slavery?

L&T Chairman SN Subrahmanyan’s recent remarks advocating for 90-hour workweeks have ignited a firestorm of criticism, sparking a much-needed conversation about the precarious state of work-life balance and the escalating pressure on India’s workforce.¹ While the Chairman’s ambition for “global supremacy” is understandable, his proposed solution – sacrificing personal well-being on the altar of productivity – is not only unsustainable but also deeply concerning.

The Reality of Long Working Hours:

• Health Impacts: Studies consistently link excessive work hours to severe health consequences, including increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, mental health issues like anxiety and depression, and even premature mortality.²
• Burnout Epidemic: India is already grappling with a burgeoning burnout epidemic.³ Long working hours, coupled with factors like intense competition and a demanding work culture, are major contributors to this crisis.
• Erosion of Productivity: Ironically, excessive work hours can actually decrease productivity.⁴ Exhausted employees are less focused, more prone to errors, and less innovative.⁵

Beyond the 90-Hour Grind: A More Sustainable Path

Instead of pushing employees to their breaking point, L&T and other Indian companies should prioritize:

• Employee Well-being: Invest in comprehensive employee wellness programs, including mental health support, stress management initiatives, and flexible work arrangements.⁶
• Focus on Outcomes, Not Hours: Shift the focus from “seat time” to actual output. Encourage efficient work practices, empower employees to manage their time effectively, and reward results over simply putting in long hours.
• Invest in Technology: Leverage technology to automate repetitive tasks, improve communication, and enhance productivity.
• Promote a Healthy Work Culture: Foster a culture of respect, open communication, and work-life balance. Encourage leaders to lead by example and prioritize their own well-being.

The Broader Issue of Work Pressure in India:

The L&T Chairman’s statement reflects a deeper societal issue: the relentless pursuit of economic growth at the expense of human well-being. Indian workers, across various sectors, face immense pressure to perform, often sacrificing their physical and mental health in the process.⁷ This “hustle culture” needs to be challenged and replaced with a more humane and sustainable approach to work.

A Call for Action:

It’s time for businesses, policymakers, and society as a whole to recognize the detrimental effects of excessive work hours. We need to prioritize employee well-being, promote healthy work-life balance, and create a work environment that values human dignity and sustainability. The pursuit of “global supremacy” should not come at the cost of the well-being of those who drive it.

Criticism Reply to L&T Chairman:

Mr. Chairman, while your ambition for L&T and India’s global standing is commendable, your suggestion of 90-hour workweeks is deeply concerning. Pushing employees to their limits, sacrificing their health and well-being, is not the path to true success.

True progress is achieved through sustainable practices, prioritizing employee well-being, and fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency. By focusing on employee well-being, investing in technology, and encouraging healthy work habits, we can achieve our goals while ensuring the long-term sustainability and success of our workforce and our nation.

I urge you to reconsider your stance and prioritize the well-being of your employees.

Disclaimer: This article presents a critical perspective on the L&T Chairman’s statement and the broader issue of work pressure in India. It is based on research and expert opinions, but individual experiences may vary.