New Report Reveals Fascinating Statistics on Weekly Working Hours in India

Indians Work an Average of 47.7 Hours per Week, Shows Report

According to a 2018 International Labour Organisation (ILO) report, Indians work an average of 47.7 hours every week, placing them seventh on the list of countries that work the most globally. The only countries with higher average working hours than India are Qatar, Congo, Lesotho, Bhutan, Gambia, and the United Arab Emirates. This data gains significance in light of Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy’s recent suggestion that India adopt a 70-hour work week.

When compared to the ten largest economies in the world, India has the longest average work week. In fact, the ILO is planning to release a special India-specific report on working hours due to this data.

The report also highlights an inverse relationship between prosperity and weekly working hours. It suggests that countries with shorter working hours tend to have higher per capita GDP. It is worth noting that while India has the highest weekly working hours among the top 10 economies, it also has one of the lowest per capita GDP figures.

France, on the other hand, has the shortest work week among the top economies at 30.1 hours. However, it boasts one of the highest per capita GDP figures at $55,493, indicating a more productive and prosperous economy.

Narayana Murthy’s suggestion of a 70-hour work week has sparked a range of responses. Some industrialists, such as JSW Chairman Sajjan Jindal, have supported the idea, stating that India needs its people to work more than the usual hours to become an economic superpower. Others, like Shark Tank India judge Namita Thapar, have raised concerns about the impact of long working hours on family time and mental health.

In response to the debate, Mukesh Bansal, founder of startups like Myntra and CureFit, emphasized that working hours should be a personal choice. He highlighted the importance of health, family, career, and peace of mind, and suggested that companies demanding 70 hours of work should provide proportional compensation.

Overall, the ILO report sheds light on the working habits of Indians and the potential impact of longer working hours on the country’s economy and well-being.