What exactly is China’s 9-9-6 culture?
China’s 9-9-6 work culture refers to employees working 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week, a total of 72 hours weekly. This model became popular in China’s booming tech industry, with many fast-growing companies saying it helped them innovate and scale quickly.
However, it has also been heavily criticised. Workers describe 9-9-6 as mentally exhausting and physically draining, often leaving no time for rest, family or personal life. In fact, China’s Supreme People’s Court declared the 9-9-6 schedule illegal in 2021, calling it exploitative. Despite that, many employees say the culture still exists informally in parts of the tech sector.
Why Murthy favours it and why people are upset
Infosys co-founder N. R. Narayana Murthy has praised the 9-9-6 style of working as a symbol of strong work ethic. He believes India’s youth must be prepared to put in extra hours if the country wants rapid economic growth. According to him, sacrifices today could lead to a stronger nation tomorrow.
But his remarks have triggered intense debate across India. Many young professionals argue that long hours don’t guarantee productivity, especially when salaries are low and work pressure is high. They also point out that India already has one of the longest average working hours globally, yet wages remain comparatively low.
Health experts also warn that chronic overwork can lead to burnout, anxiety, sleep disorders and long-term health issues. They argue that modern workplaces should prioritise efficiency, smart systems and innovation, not just longer shifts.
Murthy’s comments have opened up a larger conversation about India’s work-life balance crisis. Should the country follow a high-pressure model like 9-9-6 or build a healthier path to growth that values employees’ well-being?
The debate continues and it reflects the struggle of a young workforce caught between ambition and burnout.
