India Ranks Among the World’s Most Overworked Countries, Says ILO

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Recent data from the International Labour Organization (ILO) highlights India as one of the nations with the longest average working hours, raising concerns over employee burnout, declining well-being, and the growing overlap between professional and personal life. The findings have intensified discussions on regulating work hours amid India’s rapidly evolving economic landscape.

Key Insights from the ILO Report

The ILO’s 2024 report places India alongside countries with some of the highest weekly work hours globally. On average, Indian workers put in 45.7 hours per week, a figure comparable to nations like Bangladesh, Mongolia, and Iran. This contrasts sharply with developed economies, where work hours have decreased due to strong labour protections, technological productivity gains, and improved workplace policies.

Factors Driving Long Working Hours in India

Several factors contribute to India’s extended work culture. A sizable informal employment sector, high competition in private jobs, and job insecurity often compel employees to work longer hours. In corporate and white-collar environments, digital connectivity has normalized after-hours communication, creating expectations of constant availability. Additionally, cultural norms associating long hours with dedication and success reinforce the tendency to work extended days across sectors.

Policy Discussions and the Right to Disconnect

The ILO data has renewed attention on the Right to Disconnect Bill 2025, which aims to shield employees from work-related communications outside office hours. Advocates argue that setting formal boundaries is essential to reduce stress and prevent mental fatigue, while critics warn that rigid regulations could limit flexibility in global-facing industries. The debate reflects a growing workforce trend, especially among younger employees, prioritizing work-life balance.

Economic and Health Implications

Research indicates that long working hours do not automatically improve productivity. Excessive work is linked to lower efficiency, higher healthcare costs, and diminished long-term output. As India positions itself as a global economic hub, policymakers face the challenge of balancing competitiveness with employee well-being. The ILO findings underscore the need for reforms that foster sustainable productivity, emphasizing health and efficiency over endurance-based work practices.

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