TCS has rolled out a new policy that requires every employee to be billable for at least 225 business days within a rolling 12-month period.
In simple terms, this means your bench time (or pool time) is capped at 35 days per year.
What Happens If You’re on the Bench Too Long?
If an employee stays on the bench for more than 35 days, it could result in:
- Disciplinary action
- Possible termination
Working from home while on the bench is only permitted in exceptional cases and must be pre-approved.
Upskilling is Now Mandatory
Employees on the bench are expected to spend 4 to 6 hours per day on upskilling.
There are internal and external platforms provided by the company to support this.
Redeployment is Now Your Responsibility
The most significant shift is that redeployment is now employee-driven.
If you’re in the pool (not assigned to any project), you are expected to:
- Proactively reach out to the Resource Management Group (RMG)
- Search for and secure new projects on your own
TCS also wants to discourage short-term project hopping. If HR notices you frequently switching projects, it could trigger an internal review.
Consequences of Not Being Billable for 225 Days
Failing to meet the 225-day billability target may result in:
- Slower career growth
- Fewer opportunities
- Termination
Employee Reactions
Many people online are calling this move a quiet way to let go of employees.
The All India IT & ITeS Employees Union labeled the policy as anti-worker, stating that the burden of finding projects is being unfairly placed on employees.
Some say this policy came after a pattern where employees were:
- Working for a few months
- Getting released from a project
- Spending months on the bench
- Then joining another project
This cycle was seen as misuse, prompting the new guidelines.
10 Actionable Tips for Employees
1. Be in a Billable Role
If you’re not in a billable or client-facing role, your job could be at risk.
2. Don’t Treat Bench Time as Break Time
Bench time is monitored and short. Use it wisely to either get assigned or look for other opportunities.
3. Upskill Daily
4–6 hours per day is expected during bench time.
Upskilling is no longer optional.
4. Network Internally
Don’t wait for your manager or RMG.
Proactively pitch yourself to the right stakeholders.
5. Track Your Utilization
Your promotions, raises, onsite chances—everything will now be tied to your utilization rate.
6. Return to Office (If Possible)
Especially if you’re in a non-billable role, working from the office may improve your visibility and chances of assignment.
7. Avoid Project Hopping
Stop frequently switching projects.
Find long-term assignments and stick with them.
8. Policies Are Filtering Tools
Companies use these policies to identify underperformers.
Stay visible and productive.
9. Be Visible to the Right People
Doing a good job isn’t enough.
Make sure the right leaders know your work—especially during slow market conditions.
10. Own Your Career
Whether it’s internal moves or external job hunting, your career security depends on you—not your employer.
Final Thoughts
These policies reflect a larger industry trend. If TCS is doing it, chances are other companies will follow.
If you’re not building your skills, networking internally, or exploring external options—you’re at risk of falling behind.
👉 Adapt now to stay safe and ahead.