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According to International Labour Organization (ILO), India has emerged as one of the most overworked countries globally.
Key findings of ILO
- After Bhutan, India has ranked second for share of employed working 49 or more hours per week (51% in India).
- Pacific Island nations like Vanuatu, Kiribati and Micronesia with average 24.7, 27.3, and 30.4 working hours per week.
- Average working hours per week in India are around 46.7 hours.
Factors contributing to lack of work-life balance
- Remote work: Technology and Covid-19 pandemic provided impetus to work from home, resulting in indefinite working hours.
- Gender bias in family responsibilities: Only 32% of women reported maintaining work-life balance (IIM-A).
- Industry's focus on counting hours rather than measuring productivity.
- Informal Economy: More uneven distribution of hours of work.
Impact of long working hours
- Health: Increased working hours comes with higher risk of stroke, stress and affects mental well-being.
- Productivity: Enterprises experience negative externalities, including lower productivity levels and absenteeism.
- Social impact: Less engagement in community and civic life.
Steps that can be taken for work-life balance
- Limit working hours like a 40-hour workweek in Iceland, Spain, the UK, etc. and promote wellness programs.
- Right to Disconnect: Countries like France and Australia have introduced right to refuse work-related contact outside working hours.
Legal Provisions related to working hours
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