‘Working 14 hours a day is discouraging’: Seasoned techie warns

Karnataka's proposal to extend work hours for IT professionals to 14 hours a day, even within a four-day workweek framework, has raised alarms across the tech industry. The move, intended to enhance productivity, is being criticized by workers and experts who fear it may backfire.

Also Read: ‘Personal interests can’t be defeated by profession’: Techie laments 14-hour work extension proposal

Prasad, a seasoned tech professional, shared his concerns, stating, "Working 14 hours a day is a discouraging move, even with a four-day workweek. It's challenging to get four hours of complete productive time in an eight or nine-hour shift. Extending this to 14 hours would only worsen the situation."

Prasad further highlighted the potential negative impact on productivity and financials. "If an employee takes leave for one day under the current system, we lose about eight hours of productive time. However, with the proposed 14-hour workday, the loss would be significantly higher, affecting the employer's financials," he explained.

Critics argue that extended work hours can lead to burnout, increased stress levels, and reduced overall productivity. They emphasize the importance of maintaining a balanced work-life schedule to ensure sustained efficiency and employee well-being.

As the debate continues, it is essential for policymakers to weigh these concerns carefully. Striking a balance between boosting productivity and maintaining the health and morale of the workforce is crucial for the long-term success of Karnataka’s tech industry. The proposal, if implemented without considering these factors, could lead to unintended consequences that may hinder rather than help the sector.