The debate is not unique to India. In China, the infamous ‘996 culture’—where employees work from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week—has faced increasing scrutiny.

The pre-budget economic survey 2024-25, tabled in the Parliament by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday, i.e.

Hostile work environments, long hours at desks, and high stress levels could hinder economic momentum, the survey said.