Rahul Haldar

India, a land of vibrant culture and rapid economic growth, is also grappling with a deeply ingrained culture of long working hours. The "90-hour workweek," often touted by some business leaders as a necessary ingredient for success and national progress, has become a disturbing trend. While the ambition to excel is commendable, this relentless pursuit of extended work hours comes at a significant human cost, impacting health, well-being, and ultimately, national productivity itself. This article delves into this complex issue, exploring its historical roots, present-day consequences, and potential future, advocating for a more sustainable and humane approach to work. A Historical Perspective: From Industrial Revolution to the Information Age The concept of long working hours isn't new. It has roots in the Industrial Revolution, where factory workers endured grueling shifts under harsh conditions. While labor laws gradually improved working conditions in many parts of the...

India's burgeoning job market has witnessed a concerning trend in recent years: a cultural expectation for employees to sacrifice sleep, endure long working hours, and accept lower salaries than they deserve. This phenomenon is not only detrimental to the well-being of individual employees but also raises questions about the sustainability and ethicality of the nation's economic growth model. The Sleep Deficit Epidemic In India's hypercompetitive work environment, sleep deprivation has become a badge of honor. The glorification of "hustle culture" and the constant pressure to outperform peers have normalized sacrificing sleep for work. A recent study revealed that Indian professionals average 6.5 hours of sleep per night, well below the recommended 7-8 hours. This chronic sleep deficit leads to a host of physical and mental health problems, including impaired cognitive function, decreased productivity, and increased risk of chronic diseases. Several factors contri...