Narayan Murthi's Infosys HR sends warning emails to employees working more than 9 hours 15 minutes with new policy implementation
By automating tracking of remote hours and issuing detailed notifications, Infosys is prioritising employee well-being, work-life balance, and long-term productivity over traditional hustle culture. As the hybrid work model becomes standard, this move highlights the rising emphasis on guarding against burnout and protecting mental and physical health.
Why did the HR warn Infosys employees?
In stark contrast to founder N.R. Narayana Murthy's previous support for a 70-hour workweek, India's second-largest IT services business, Infosys, has started issuing tailored warning letters to staff members who work longer than usual. An automated monitoring system has been put in place by the Bengaluru-based company, which sends out alarms when staff members work longer than nine hours and fifteen minutes per day.
An employee told The Economic Times, "We have to work 9.15 hours a day, five days a week, and if we go overboard while working remotely, it sets off a trigger." The company's HR department now keeps track of remote working hours on a monthly basis and notifies employees in detail when they go beyond the allotted time.
Infosys keeps an eye on remote work schedules to avoid burnout
The monitoring mechanism was implemented after Infosys's 323,500 employees were given hybrid work arrangements. HR provides thorough notifications that include details regarding remote working days, total hours worked, and daily averages when excessive hours are identified. According to the company's workplace policy, which was enacted in November 2023, employees must be in the office for at least ten days every month.
The HR message examined by the financial daily 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." The emails stress the advantages of putting one's health and work-life balance first for both one's own well-being and career success.
Policy changes in the Indian IT sector are driven by health concerns
This program comes as worries about young tech workers' health problems—especially heart problems linked to irregular eating and sleeping habits—are becoming more prevalent. Among the particular suggestions made by the company are the following: "Take regular breaks during your workday; Let your manager know if you are feeling overwhelmed or need support with reviewing priorities."
In contrast to Narayana Murthy's recent claims that Indians should work 70 hours a week to boost economic growth, the proposal marks a substantial shift. The action aligns with changing workplace standards in the Indian IT industry, where long hours are becoming less important than sustained productivity and employee mental wellness.
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