SN Subrahmanyan Controversy: Chairman of Larsen & Toubro Sparks Debate on Labor Migration and Work-Life Balance
SN Subrahmanyan, the chairman of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), finds himself embroiled in yet another controversy. This time, the debate revolves around worker migration issues and the impact of government welfare schemes on labor availability. These comments follow his previous statement advocating for a 90-hour workweek, which drew criticism from business leaders and sparked a national discussion on work-life balance.
During the CII Mystic South Global Linkages Summit 2025 in Chennai, Mr. Subrahmanyan pointed out that labor migration challenges are affecting India’s construction sector. He attributed the reluctance of workers to relocate to government programs such as MGNREGA, direct benefit transfers, and JAN DHAN accounts.
Key Highlights:
Labor Migration Challenges: Impact of Government Aid Programs
Mr. Subrahmanyan expressed concern about the difficulties in mobilizing workers for the construction industry. According to him, welfare initiatives such as MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) and direct benefit transfers have contributed to a thriving local economy, making workers less inclined to relocate for job opportunities. He stated,
“Workers are unwilling to relocate in search of better possibilities. Perhaps the numerous government initiatives are to blame for the thriving local economy.”
He warned that India’s infrastructure development could be significantly affected by the ongoing labor shortage if migration issues are not addressed.
Wage Disparity: Why Workers Prefer the Middle East
Another crucial point raised by Subrahmanyan was the significant wage disparity between India and the Middle East. He called for wage hikes in India to align with inflation. The Middle East offers salaries that are up to 3.5 times higher than India, making it a preferred destination for Indian workers.
Larsen & Toubro currently needs about 4 lakh workers, but the high attrition rate forces the company to hire 16 lakh workers annually to keep up with its labor requirements.
The 90-Hour Workweek Controversy:
This controversy comes just a week after Mr. Subrahmanyan’s comments on the 90-hour workweek sparked outrage. He had previously remarked that employees should work on Sundays, jokingly adding:
“What do you do sitting at home? How long can you stare at your wife? Come on, get to the office and start working.”
Prominent business leaders, including Adar Poonawalla, Anand Mahindra, and Sanjiv Puri of ITC, were quick to counter his views. They stressed that work-life balance is essential for employee productivity and well-being.
The debate also caught the attention of the government. Last week, it informed Parliament that there are no plans to increase working hours to 70 or 90 hours per week.
Health Implications of Long Working Hours:
The pre-Budget Economic Survey 2025 referenced research highlighting the negative health impacts of excessive work hours. According to the survey,
- Working more than 60 hours per week can result in mental health issues.
- Prolonged desk time is linked to feelings of distress and mental health disorders.
- People who spend 12 or more hours daily at their desks are more likely to experience adverse effects on their overall well-being.
SN Subrahmanyan’s recent comments have reignited discussions on labor migration, wage disparity, and work-life balance in India. While his concerns about labor shortages and wage competitiveness are valid, his views on extended work hours have sparked a broader debate on employee welfare. Addressing these issues requires a delicate balance between boosting productivity and safeguarding workers’ health and well-being.
As India pushes for rapid infrastructure growth, the focus should remain on ensuring fair wages, promoting labor mobility, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance for sustainable development.
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