L&T chairman under fire : Subrahmanyan is currently under massive backlash for his comments suggesting that employees should work 90 hours a week.
L&T Chairmen SN Subramanyan
I regret I am not able to make you work on Sundays, to be honest. If I can make you work on Sundays, I will be more happy, because I work on Sundays also. What do you do sitting at home? How long can you stare at your wife? How long can the wives stare at their husbands? Get to the office and start working.
In a recent statement that has captured widespread attention and sparked debates across industries, the chairman of Larsen & Toubro (L&T) suggested that individuals should work 90 hours a week, including Sundays. The remark has stirred a mix of responses, ranging from support for the idea of enhanced productivity to concerns about employee well-being and work-life balance.
The L&T chairman’s comments were made in the context of increasing global competitiveness and the need for accelerated economic growth. He emphasized that achieving ambitious targets, whether at the individual, organizational, or national level, requires extraordinary effort and dedication. By advocating for extended work hours, the chairman appeared to challenge the traditional work ethic and push boundaries to drive innovation and success.
Industry Reactions
Unsurprisingly, the statement has drawn sharp reactions from various quarters:
- Supporters: Advocates of the idea argue that extended work hours are a necessity in today’s fast-paced and demanding business environment. They point to successful entrepreneurs and leaders who often dedicate long hours to their work as examples of the benefits of an intensive work ethic.
- Critics: On the other hand, critics have raised concerns about the practicality and ethical implications of such a suggestion. Prolonged working hours are often linked to burnout, decreased productivity, and mental health issues. Many argue that the focus should be on smarter work, leveraging technology and innovation rather than longer hours.
- Labor Experts: Labor and HR professionals have also weighed in, highlighting the need for regulatory compliance and employee rights. Many countries have strict labor laws that cap working hours to protect employees from exploitation.
There are reactions which caught attention , few of them are below
The Reality of a 90-Hour Work Week
To put the 90-hour work week into perspective, it would mean working more than 12 hours every single day, including weekends. While such a routine might be sustainable in the short term for some individuals, maintaining this pace over the long term can have significant repercussions:
- Health Risks: Prolonged work hours are linked to stress, cardiovascular diseases, and sleep disorders.
- Reduced Productivity: Studies have shown that productivity declines sharply after a certain number of hours worked per week.
- Impact on Personal Life: A 90-hour work week leaves minimal time for family, hobbies, or personal growth, leading to potential dissatisfaction and disengagement.
Also Read : Game changer Movie ready to create history
Striking a Balance
While the chairman’s remarks may have been intended to inspire greater dedication and commitment, they also highlight the need for a balanced approach to work. Organizations can achieve high productivity and growth without overburdening employees by adopting strategies such as:
- Focus on Output, Not Hours: Encouraging employees to achieve specific outcomes rather than focusing on the number of hours worked.
- Leverage Technology: Automating repetitive tasks and using advanced tools to enhance efficiency.
- Foster a Healthy Work Environment: Ensuring that employees have access to wellness programs and flexible working options.
Conclusion
The L&T chairman’s suggestion has undoubtedly sparked an important conversation about work culture, productivity, and the future of work. While hard work and dedication are essential for success, it is equally important to recognize the value of balance, health, and innovation. Ultimately, sustainable growth can only be achieved when employees are motivated, healthy, and empowered to perform at their best.
