Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy has once again defended his controversial call for a 70-hour workweek, which he initially proposed in 2023. Murthy believes that young professionals in India must work harder to make the country globally competitive. Speaking at an event in Kolkata, Murthy highlighted the importance of aiming high and working towards making India the best. He pointed out that millions of Indians still live in poverty, and working hard is crucial to improving the nation’s future.

Murthy also reflected on his past experiences and ideological shift from socialism to entrepreneurship. He mentioned his time in Paris in the early 1970s, where he was struck by the contrast between the prosperous West and the poverty in India. He emphasized that job creation, not government intervention, is the key to fighting poverty and that entrepreneurship is vital for a country’s progress.

The industry veteran also discussed his belief in "compassionate capitalism" as a solution to India’s economic challenges. Murthy argued that embracing capitalism would drive infrastructure development and job creation, thereby improving the country's overall prosperity.