Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy has doubled down on his controversial stance advocating for a 70-hour workweek, stressing that hard work is crucial for India to compete with global powers like China. Speaking at a recent event, Murthy called on India’s educated youth to dedicate additional hours to work in order to drive the country’s economic growth. He cited the tireless efforts of farmers and factory workers as examples of dedication, urging others to follow suit.
While his comments on long working hours have sparked significant debate, with critics accusing him of undermining work-life balance, Murthy remains steadfast. He pointed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s work ethic as a model, claiming that “there is no substitute for hard work,” regardless of one’s intelligence. Despite the backlash, Murthy continues to stand by his belief, arguing that India’s future depends on such commitment and perseverance.