Wipro extends bench time for some workers

Wipro is extending its bench time policy for some employees, allowing those in Band 2 and below to remain on the bench for a maximum of six months, starting from October 1. This comes as other major IT firms, such as TCS and Cognizant, have reduced their bench time periods. Wipro's new policy requires employees on the bench to be allocated a project within 180 days or face separation, as per their employment contracts.

Employees on the bench could potentially be upskilled and reassigned to available projects, potentially reducing the need for the company to hire and train new talent. However, some Wipro employees have contested the company's Extended Bench Leave Programme (EBLP), arguing that it resembles a contracting arrangement, as their salary and PF contributions stop if no project is found during the unpaid bench period.