Harsh Goenka, the chairman of RPG Enterprises, has voiced his support for Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal amidst recent discussions surrounding India’s startup landscape. Goenka also aligned himself with N.R. Narayana Murthy’s controversial statement about 90-hour work weeks, suggesting that both leaders were not meant to be taken literally but rather were offering a broader perspective on work culture. He emphasizes that the conversation should not center on glorifying overwork but rather on shifting the nation’s mindset toward ambition and long-term growth.
Embracing Ambition in India’s Startup Ecosystem
In light of the ongoing global tariff disputes, Goenka insists that to remain competitive against nations like the United States and China, India must foster a culture of ambition and innovation. He points out that sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and clean energy are crucial for driving sustainable growth in the country.
- Key Sectors for Growth:
- Robotics
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Clean Energy
On April 5, Goenka shared his thoughts on the platform X (formerly Twitter), addressing the remarks made by Murthy and fellow industrialist A. Subrahmanyan regarding extensive work hours. He remarked that their comments were not meant to be taken at face value. Instead, they aimed to provoke thought about the fundamental purpose of what India is building in its startup sector.
Shifting the National Mindset
In his post, Goenka stated, “When Murthy and Subrahmanyan referred to 70-90 hour work weeks, and Piyush Goyal criticized startups focused on vegan ice creams and rapid delivery services, they weren’t speaking literally—they were being directional. They were challenging us to consider the essence of our entrepreneurial efforts. To truly compete with global leaders, we must prioritize ambition over mere comfort and convenience.”
This conversation gained momentum after Goyal’s remarks at the Startup Mahakumbh 2025 event on April 3, where he criticized wealthy young entrepreneurs for pursuing trivial businesses instead of driving technological advancement in India.
Conclusion
Goenka’s insights resonate with the ongoing debate within India’s business community, urging a collective reevaluation of priorities. By fostering a spirit of innovation and focusing on impactful sectors, India can redefine its path in the global marketplace. The call for a shift from "ease" to "effort" represents a significant turning point in how businesses and startups approach their growth strategies in this dynamic environment.
