China’s ‘Unhappy Leave’ Policy Sparks Debate in India’s Corporate World

China-based retailer Pang Dong Lai’s unusual ‘Unhappy Leave’ policy has triggered a discussion in India’s corporate sector. Under the policy introduced by founder and chairman Yu Dong Lai in 2024, employees can take up to 10 additional paid leave days a year whenever they feel unhappy or mentally drained. They are not required to provide a medical certificate, family emergency or lengthy explanation, and managers are not allowed to reject such leave requests. The policy is based on the company’s belief that employees should be able to take a break when they are not in the right frame of mind to work.

The idea gained attention in India after businessman Harsh Goenka raised the issue on X, asking whether Indian workplaces should adopt a similar approach or focus on creating healthier work environments. While some supported the concept, arguing that personal difficulties can affect an employee’s performance and that short breaks can benefit both workers and companies, others said additional leave alone cannot solve workplace stress. Pang Dong Lai also follows a broader employee-friendly work culture, including seven-hour workdays, weekends off and around 30–40 days of annual leave, along with additional holidays for the Lunar New Year. This has led to a wider debate over whether companies should introduce ‘Unhappy Leave’ or address workplace pressure through comprehensive changes in work culture.