Genpact’s new work policy has sparked intense debate across India’s corporate sector. Several employees have alleged that the company is now mandating a six-day office attendance policy, and those who fail to comply are being pressured to resign or face disciplinary action. This development has raised serious concerns, as it echoes China’s controversial “996 work culture,” where employees are expected to work from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week. While such a model has faced heavy backlash in China for being exploitative and harmful to mental health, the possibility of its adoption in India is alarming. Post-pandemic, India had started embracing flexible work options, remote work, and hybrid setups as a progressive step towards employee well-being. However, if major firms like Genpact begin reversing this trend, it could set a dangerous precedent. Today’s workforce, especially the younger generation, values work-life balance, mental health, and flexibility far more than rigid office hours. Ignoring this shift can lead to high attrition, low morale, and declining productivity. Companies must realize that employees are not machines—they are individuals with personal lives and psychological needs. If Indian corporations move toward a 996-like model, they risk alienating talent and pushing the workforce into an unsustainable routine that even China is now being forced to re-evaluate.
What Exactly Happened at Genpact?
Genpact’s internal teams have allegedly pressured employees to return to office six days a week. While Genpact has not officially confirmed a “996-style” mandate, employees claim non-compliance could lead to disciplinary action or being forced to resign.
This comes at a time when remote work and hybrid models are being embraced globally, especially post-COVID.
What Is China’s “996” Work Culture?
The “996” model—9 am to 9 pm, six days a week—is a controversial yet normalized schedule in many Chinese tech companies. Despite being criticized for burnout and mental health issues, the culture has persisted under the guise of productivity and national growth.
India, historically, has not adopted such a rigid model on a wide scale—until now?
Is India Ready (or Willing) for a 996-Like Future?
Genpact’s alleged policy shift may be a test balloon for other firms, especially in the IT and BPO sectors. Here’s why this is alarming:
India’s labor laws do not explicitly endorse 996-like workweeks.
Mental health issues and job dissatisfaction are already rising.
Young Indian professionals are increasingly demanding work-life balance over long hours.
If a company as big as Genpact normalizes this, it could set a dangerous precedent for other corporates to follow suit.
The Larger Debate: Productivity vs Exploitation
While some argue that longer hours might drive productivity and discipline, critics strongly disagree. Studies show that employee burnout leads to high attrition, poor morale, and reduced output in the long run.
The future of work in India must be balanced—not borrowed blindly from flawed foreign systems.