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Journalism of Courage
Infosys co-founder NR Narayana Murthy has reiterated his stance on the 70-hour workweek, stating that he does not believe in the concept of ‘work-life balance’. He also expressed disappointment over India’s shift from a six-day to a five-day workweek in 1986. “I don’t believe in work-life balance,” Murthy said.
Speaking at the CNBC-TV18 Global Leadership Summit, Murthy added that hard work and dedication are crucial for India’s economic growth and that Indians should work 70 hours a week to contribute to the nation’s progress. “About 25 years ago, KV Kamath at an event was asked about his opinion on work-life balance. He said that India is a poor country with a lot of challenges. We first have to get a life, then we can worry about work-life balance,” Murthy said. Kamath is the chairman of Jio Financial Services.
He further said that “India needs a stronger work ethic” and reaffirmed that his view on the “70-hour workweek” remains unchanged. “I am sorry, I have not changed my view. I will take this with me to my grave,” he said.
“Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi probably works 100 hours a week. When his cabinet ministers are working very hard, when his bureaucrats are all working very hard, the only way we can show our appreciation for all these wonderful things that are happening is by our work,” Murthy added.
Murthy believes India’s progress depends on its citizens’ willingness to make sacrifices. He views hard work as an obligation rather than simply a personal value, especially for those who have benefited from India’s publicly-funded education system.
