Bengaluru, India – India’s booming IT industry is facing a growing crisis as excessive work hours take a toll on professionals. A recent report reveals that one in four IT employees is logging 70 or more hours per week, leading to alarming levels of burnout, stress, and declining mental health across the sector.

The Growing Burden on IT Professionals

• The IT industry has long been a cornerstone of India’s economy, but the pressure to meet global demands is pushing employees to their limits.

• Work-from-home flexibility, while initially welcomed, has blurred boundaries between professional and personal life, contributing to extended work hours.

• Intense project deadlines, offshore client expectations, and an increasingly competitive job market have fueled a culture of overwork.

Impact on Mental and Physical Health

• Studies indicate rising cases of anxiety, depression, and physical health issues such as chronic fatigue and sleep disorders among IT professionals.

• Many employees report feeling undervalued despite the long hours, leading to increased attrition rates across major IT firms.

• Burnout has also resulted in reduced productivity and innovation, ultimately impacting business growth.

Companies Respond with Workplace Reforms

• In response to mounting concerns, some IT firms are introducing mental health support programs, flexible work policies, and mandatory breaks.

• Leading companies such as Infosys, TCS, and Wipro are exploring initiatives to promote better work-life balance, including limiting work hours and encouraging wellness activities.

• However, experts argue that systemic changes, including realistic project timelines and cultural shifts in management expectations, are needed to bring lasting improvements.

A Wake-Up Call for the Industry

• India’s IT sector must address the burnout crisis proactively to retain top talent and sustain long-term growth.

• Employees are calling for better workload distribution, clearer policies on work-life boundaries, and stronger mental health resources.

• With global firms emphasizing employee well-being, Indian IT companies may need to rethink their strategies to remain competitive in the evolving digital economy.

As the burnout epidemic engulfs the IT workforce, industry leaders must act decisively to create a healthier and more sustainable work environment before the damage becomes irreversible.