Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala has ranked among the top five states in India where a significant portion of the workforce logs more than 70 hours per week, according to recent data. Around 6.16% of workers in the state exceed this threshold, placing Kerala in the fifth position after Gujarat (7.21%), Punjab (7.09%), Maharashtra, and West Bengal.
However, government and local self-government employees in Kerala fare poorly in terms of work hours compared to the national average. Urban government employees in Kerala work an average of six hours per day, totaling just 36 hours per week, ranking 34th nationwide. In rural areas, government employees work slightly less than six hours per day, which is also below the national average.
The Economic Survey 2024-25 has raised concerns over excessive working hours, warning that individuals working beyond 60 hours a week face higher risks of stress and burnout. Those working over 70 hours are particularly vulnerable to significant health distress.
The data highlights the stark contrast between the private and government sectors in Kerala, with corporate employees working long hours, while government employees work fewer hours compared to their counterparts in other states. This situation has sparked discussions about work culture, productivity, and employee well-being in the state.
