Sat Nov 16 13:29:43 UTC 2024: **Infosys Co-founder Narayana Murthy Defends 70-Hour Work Week Proposal**
**Bengaluru, India** – NR Narayana Murthy, co-founder of Infosys, has reiterated his controversial proposal for Indian youth to work 70 hours a week, arguing that intense dedication is crucial for India’s development. Speaking at the CNBC Global Leadership Summit, Murthy stated that his belief remains unshaken, emphasizing that hard work is the only path to national progress. He even cited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s purported 100-hour work week as an example, questioning why the youth cannot emulate such dedication.
Murthy recalled his own discomfort when India transitioned from a six-day to a five-day work week in 1986. He believes that sacrifices are necessary for national development and pointed to the post-World War II reconstruction of Germany and Japan as models for India to follow. He emphasized that he personally works around 14 hours daily, six and a half days a week and takes pride in this lifestyle.
Murthy’s proposal, however, contrasts sharply with the standard 8-hour workday and the typical 50-hour work week prevalent in India’s IT sector. His suggestion of a 70-hour work week equates to approximately 12 hours of work daily. While acknowledging the current work culture, Murthy advocates for a significant increase in working hours as essential for India’s economic advancement. He firmly believes that hard work is the sole key to achieving global success.
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