Answer

Recently, Narayan Murthy, the co-founder of Infosys, suggested that young Indians should commit to a 70-hour workweek, which translates to nearly 12 hours of work for six days, in order to enhance the nation's productivity. He underlined the urgency of enhancing India's workforce efficiency, citing Germany and Japan as examples. It may be noted that following World War II, both Germans and the Japanese experienced a peak in their average annual working hours, ranging from approximately 2,200 to 2,400 hours per year.

As per ILO, the average hourly productivity in India is $8.47, with the Indian workforce typically working close to 48 hours per week.This idea of prolonging work hours comes with both advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of long working hours

• Increased Output and Higher Labour Productivity: Higher work hours can lead to increased production and output in industries where labor is a crucial factor. This is particularly beneficial in sectors like manufacturing and agriculture.

• Economic Growth: Longer work hours may contribute to economic growth by driving up GDP, which, in turn, can positively impact a nation's overall economic performance.
• It has the potential to assist India in achieving its target of becoming a $5 trillion economy.

• Competitive Advantage: Nations with a highly productive workforce may gain a competitive advantage in the global market. Increased working hours can enhance competitiveness.
• For instance, tech companies working around the clock can develop and launch products more quickly, keeping them at the forefront of the industry.

• Enhanced Innovation: Longer working hours can foster innovation, especially in research and development fields. Continuous efforts can lead to breakthroughs and advancements.
• Universities and research institutions often benefit from researchers working extended hours to make discoveries in fields such as medicine and technology.

• Increased Tax Revenue:A more productive workforce can generate higher tax revenue, which can be reinvested into public services and infrastructure development.
• The government can allocate funds to healthcare, education, and social programs, benefiting citizens.

Disadvantages of long working hours

• Health Impacts: Prolonged work hours can lead to various health issues. For example, the risk of cardiovascular problems, obesity,  diabetes, stress, anxiety can increase.
•  A study published in The Lancet in 2015 found that individuals working 55 hours or more per week had a 13% greater risk of developing coronary heart disease.

• Decreased Productivity: Counterintuitively, excessively long work hours can lead to reduced productivity. As employees become fatigued, their ability to concentrate and make sound decisions diminishes. 
• A Stanford University study found that productivity per hour declines sharply when the workweek exceeds 50 hours.

• Burnout and Job Dissatisfaction: Employees working excessively long hours are at a higher risk of burnout and job dissatisfaction. This can lead to high turnover rates and decreased employee morale, negatively affecting overall workplace dynamics and productivity.

• Impact on Work-Life Balance: Long work hours can disrupt work-life balance, straining personal relationships and reducing the time available for leisure, family, and social activities. This can lead to increased stress and reduced overall well-being.
•  Individuals and families may miss out on important life experiences, hobbies, and personal growth opportunities.

• Gender Inequality: Unequal distribution of long work hours can perpetuate gender inequality, as women often face challenges balancing extended work hours with caregiving responsibilities. This can hinder women's career advancement and economic independence.

Way forward 

• Various GOI initiatives for improving productivity and efficiency like Skill India Mission, Digital India Mission, Start up India etc should be implemented in full letter and spirit.
• Focus should be on adoption of digital tools and artificial intelligence to streamline processes and upskill the workforce.
• Improving transportation infrastructure is essential for shortening commutes and enhancing workplace accessibility. 
• Promoting growth and a promising future requires motivating youth through challenging roles and fostering a culture of transparency and trust. 
• Prioritizing self-care, including activities like exercise and sufficient sleep, is crucial.

Thus, success hinges not only on hard work but also on dedication and enthusiasm. The aim is to make work fulfilling and seamlessly integrate it with personal life, emphasizing the importance of work-life harmony. N.R. Narayana Murthy's proposal for a 70-hour workweek should be carefully evaluated, considering potential negative effects on work quality, burnout, mental health, and work-life balance, as effective employment rules should balance job needs and employee welfare and development.