HDFC Bank rolls out WFH for select staff amid West Asia tensions

The bank has allowed employees in Business Enabling Functions and Corporate Enabling Functions to work from home for up to two days a week.

Key operational divisions included

The Business Enabling Functions category includes important operational divisions such as treasury operations, credit underwriting and risk, transaction banking, digital banking and IT services.

Meanwhile, the Corporate Enabling Functions category covers departments including human resources, finance and accounts, legal, and compliance.

30-day trial period announced

With a workforce of nearly 2,00,000 employees, HDFC Bank said the new work-from-home arrangement will initially be implemented on a 30-day trial basis.

The bank has also clarified that all branches and customer-facing services across the country will continue to function normally.

Modi urges austerity amid West Asia tensions

PM Modi has urged citizens to adopt austerity measures in view of the worsening conflict in West Asia, warning that the global crisis could severely impact India’s economy through rising fuel prices and pressure on foreign exchange reserves.

Modi appealed to people to avoid unnecessary foreign travel for a year and refrain from purchasing gold during festivals and weddings.

‘Economic patriotism’ call

Stressing the need for “economic patriotism”, Modi said every Indian must contribute towards protecting the country’s financial stability during uncertain global conditions.

The Prime Minister also urged citizens to reduce petrol and diesel consumption, revive work-from-home practices wherever possible, and rely more on public transport.

He cautioned that disruptions in global crude oil supply chains due to the conflict could sharply increase India’s import bill, given the country’s heavy dependence on imported fuel and gold.