Bernie Sanders says AI should give 4-day workweek: Can India follow?

In a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders passionately argued that advancements in artificial intelligence should lead to a reduction in work hours rather than job losses. He proposed a shift towards a 32-hour workweek, emphasizing that the productivity gains from AI should benefit workers by giving them more personal time instead of merely increasing corporate profits. Sanders introduced the 32-Hour Workweek Act last year, which aims to establish a 32-hour standard workweek with mandatory overtime pay for hours worked beyond this limit, phased in over a four-year period. This idea is resonating on a global scale, with several companies already experimenting with shorter workweeks. Some CEOs are optimistic that AI will enable a more balanced approach to work hours. However, the implications of such a movement in India—a nation known for its demanding work culture—are significant. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), Indian workers average between 46.7 and 47.7 hours per week, one of the highest rates globally. A staggering 51% of them exceed 49 hours weekly, a figure second only to Bhutan. In the formal sectors, especially in IT, many employees face unofficial expectations of 12-hour days and workweeks of up to 70 hours. Notable figures in the industry, like Infosys co-founder NR Narayana Murthy, have expressed support for the demanding 70-hour work model, while L&T chairman SN Subrahmanyan has controversially suggested a 90-hour workweek. This has ignited a national debate about the intense work culture prevalent in the country. The impact of this relentless pace is evident, as a 2024 study found that 58% of Indian workers report experiencing burnout, the highest rate in the world. This burnout leads to decreased productivity and negatively affects employee morale and mental health. As public and private sectors begin to address the challenges of this excessive work culture, there are growing calls for change. Could India adopt Sanders's vision for a more humane work environment? A report from Pearson suggests that Indian tech workers could potentially reclaim half a day each week through automation by 2029, providing a pathway towards shorter work hours. However, the current legal framework complicates matters; while India has a 48-hour workweek cap, enforcement of this regulation is weak, leading to frequent violations. The greatest challenge may lie in overcoming resistance from management, which often views long hours as a sign of dedication and productivity. Implementing Sanders's proposals in the Indian context will likely require a fundamental shift in laws, corporate attitudes, and national priorities. As the dialogue around work culture evolves, the question remains: can India embrace a reform similar to Sanders's vision for a better work-life balance in the era of AI?