In a clear shift from the ideology once promoted by its co-founder Narayana Murthy, Infosys has launched a company-wide campaign urging employees to prioritize work-life balance, avoid overtime, and focus on their well-being. This new stance comes amid rising debates over the impact of long working hours on employees’ mental and physical health.
As part of its internal initiative, the Bengaluru-based tech giant has begun sending personalized emails to employees who regularly log more hours than the company’s recommended limits—particularly those working remotely. These messages, sent by the HR department, gently nudge staff to adopt healthier working habits, take breaks, and avoid burnout.
What the HR Emails Say
The emails, described as courteous yet firm, highlight that although the company appreciates employee dedication, long-term productivity hinges on health and balance. One part of the email reads:
“While we appreciate your commitment, we also believe that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for both your well-being and long-term professional success.”
Infosys encourages employees to:
- Take regular breaks during the workday
- Communicate with managers when feeling overwhelmed
- Reevaluate task priorities
- Minimize work-related interaction after hours
This proactive approach reflects Infosys’ evolving culture, especially after adopting a hybrid work model. Since November 20, 2023, employees have been required to work from the office at least 10 days a month. Meanwhile, HR teams have been quietly tracking employee working hours to monitor patterns and identify overworked staff.
A Shift from Murthy’s 70-Hour Standpoint
This balanced approach is in stark contrast to the views of Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy, who, just last year, advocated for a 70-hour workweek. His remarks sparked intense debate across corporate India.
Speaking at the Indian Chamber of Commerce’s centenary event in 2023, Murthy had emphasized hard work as a national need, stating:
“If we are not in a position to work hard, then who will work hard?”
He tied long hours to national progress, noting that nearly 800 million Indians receive free ration, implying the urgent need for economic upliftment through hard work.
However, following public backlash and concern from mental health advocates, Murthy clarified his statement in January 2025, calling the 70-hour workweek “a personal choice”, and not something that should be enforced.
“Nobody can say you should do this or you shouldn’t. It’s a matter of personal discipline,” he remarked.
India’s Ongoing Work Culture Debate
Infosys’ latest move adds a fresh chapter to the ongoing discourse about workplace expectations, particularly in the tech sector. With over 323,500 employees, Infosys is one of India’s largest employers, and its internal policies often signal larger trends in the IT and corporate space.
In recent years, burnout, mental fatigue, and poor work-life integration have emerged as leading challenges in fast-paced industries. While some founders and leaders push for intense schedules, others—like Infosys now—are shifting focus toward sustainability and long-term well-being.
Balancing Aspiration with Wellness
As India strives for global competitiveness, the question isn’t whether hard work is essential—it undoubtedly is—but rather, how much is too much? Infosys seems to be advocating for a middle path: high performance without sacrificing personal health or life outside work.
In an era where remote work blurs boundaries and burnout is just a missed break away, Infosys’ message is both timely and necessary. It’s a reassuring signal that employee health is taking center stage in corporate India’s future.
