Narayana Murthy Reiterates Call for 72-Hour Workweek, Comparing it to China’s 9-9-6 Rule

Infosys founder N.R. Narayana Murthy has once again sparked discussion by suggesting a 72-hour work week for Indians, drawing inspiration from China’s '996 rule.' This '996' work culture means working from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week—resulting in a 72-hour work week, which is popular among some Chinese tech companies despite being controversial and technically illegal under Chinese labor law. In a recent interview, Murthy reaffirmed his belief in hard work and stated, “You should first get a life and then worry about work-life balance.” From his lifelong experience, Murthy shared that no country, community, or individual advances without putting in dedicated, hard work. harmful, but some argue it raises productivity and keeps companies competitive. Recent moves by companies and the government suggest a shift towards more reasonable working hours, though 996 still influences many workplaces today.fosys co-founder N.R. Narayana Murthy has once again drawn attention with his proposal for a 72-hour workweek, citing China's '996 rule' as an example. In a recent interview with Republic TV, he emphasized his belief in the value of hard work, stating one should “get a life and then worry about work-life balance.” Murthy shared from his extensive experience that a universal truth prevails: no individual, community, or nation achieves success without putting in significant hard work. totaling 72 hours of work each week. This practice is common especially in technology companies, even though it violates China’s labor laws that limit working hours to 44 per week. Despite being illegal, enforcement is often weak, and many workers end up putting in long hours without proper compensation. The Chinese government has started cracking down on this culture as it causes health problems and burnout, aiming to protect worker rights and encourage a healthier work-life balance. People criticize the 996 system for being too demanding and harmful, but some argue it raises productivity and keeps companies competitive. Recent moves by companies and the government suggest a shift towards more reasonable working hours, though 996 still influences many workplaces today.