After PM Modi’s call to cut unnecessary travel, NITES seeks mandatory work-from-home for IT firms

The Nascent Information Technology Employees Senate (NITES) has reached out to the Ministry of Labour and Employment, urging the government to implement a mandatory work-from-home (WFH) policy for the IT and IT-enabled services (IT/ITES) sector. This request is framed within the context of fuel conservation, easing traffic congestion, and addressing broader national interests. In a letter addressed to Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on May 11, NITES highlighted that this initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent appeals for citizens and businesses to adopt practices such as remote work and virtual meetings, particularly during this challenging global geopolitical and economic landscape. The organization emphasized that the Prime Minister's statement was not merely a suggestion but a call for collective responsibility during a time when reducing reliance on fuel and alleviating traffic burdens are crucial. NITES pointed out that the IT/ITES industry is exceptionally well-equipped to embrace large-scale remote work without sacrificing productivity, citing the sector's success during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, the vast majority of the Indian IT industry shifted to WFH models swiftly and efficiently, continuing operations, fulfilling international project commitments, and supporting global clients. This adaptability contributed significantly to the resilience of the Indian economy during one of the most challenging periods in recent history. NITES expressed concern that compelling thousands of employees to commute daily, despite the availability of digital solutions, places undue strain on fuel resources, public infrastructure, and employee wellness. Many workers in metropolitan areas spend excessive time commuting, even when their tasks can be effectively completed remotely. The union has formally requested the Labour Ministry to issue guidance directing IT/ITES companies to enforce mandatory work-from-home policies wherever feasible. They argue that such a move would help alleviate fuel consumption, reduce traffic congestion, and lessen environmental impact while maintaining continuous economic activity through digital means. NITES President Harpreet Singh Saluja clarified that the request is not intended to create discord with employers but to foster national cooperation. The letter asserts that the collaboration observed between employees and employers during the pandemic serves as a testament to the potential effectiveness of remote working arrangements in supporting national priorities and the public good.