“Indian punctuality” is a well-known phrase—unfortunately, not in a flattering sense. We often joke about “Indian Stretchable Time (IST)”, but the humour hides a persistent problem: punctuality (or the lack of it) in conferences and webinars, especially in professional and academic settings.
When Time Truly Matters
Broadly, two kinds of situations shape how seriously people treat time.
In the first, arriving late means missing the event altogether—catching a bus, train, or flight, or appearing for an examination. Most people make every effort to be on time here. Some arrive well in advance; others prefer to cut it close and arrive just in time.
The second category includes situations where lateness does not immediately exclude participation—weddings, family gatherings, conferences, and professional events. In these settings, behaviour varies widely. Some people still arrive 10–15 minutes early. Others arrive whenever they choose, sometimes hours late.
I do not have statistics on how many people fall into each group. I do know where I stand. I reach at least 15 minutes early for any event. When I deliver a webinar, I prepare and log in well ahead of time
Ready on Time—Then Asked to Wait
These experiences are not isolated. They reflect a broader issue with punctuality in conferences and webinars, where schedules slip and preparation often goes unrecognised.
At many professional events I have ended up waiting.
Events have started late. Speakers before me have exceeded their allotted time. In one recent instance, technology problems pushed my talk to two hours after the scheduled time. For this event, I had not only agreed to speak at short notice, but since I was given only a half hour slot, I had to work at shortening my usual one-hour presentation. Which is a task that takes some effort
When my turn finally came—two hours later—the organisers asked whether I could shorten my talk even further.
At another conference, organisers allocated me twenty minutes. The first speaker in our slot overran substantially. As a result, the remaining speakers were asked to finish in five minutes.
Responsibility Beyond the Organisers
Organisers carry a significant responsibility, but they do not carry it alone. Speakers must respect their allotted time. Moderators must intervene when speakers overrun. At times, that intervention simply means stopping a speaker—firmly and politely.
For webinars, organisers also need to plan carefully for technology and connectivity. Technical failures can occur, and Murphy’s Law does apply. Even so, such disruptions should remain the exception rather than the norm.
Ultimately, everyone involved shares responsibility for keeping to time.
The Value of Backup Speakers
Another important, and often misunderstood, aspect of professional events is the role of backup speakers.
At times, a speaker genuinely cannot arrive on time or must cancel altogether, usually for reasons beyond their control. In such cases, organisers benefit greatly from having backup speakers ready. A few years ago, conference organisers asked me to serve as a backup speaker, and I agreed without hesitation. Later, I learnt that some people feel offended by such requests. I continue to wonder why.
Stepping in when needed does not diminish a speaker. On the contrary, it reflects professionalism and a willingness to support the larger goal of the event.
Professional and Academic Events Deserve Better
Professional events and academic conferences deserve discipline and respect for time. Punctuality signals respect for audiences, fellow speakers, and the effort that goes into preparing meaningful content.
Stretchable time may be acceptable for social gatherings in India. (I believe we could learn from the west and change this too!). It definitely does not fit in conferences, webinars, classrooms, or academic forums. Clear planning, strict timekeeping, active moderation, and prepared backup speakers form the foundation of credible events.
If we want our conferences and academic forums to improve in quality and credibility, we must start by treating punctuality and preparedness as non-negotiable. When we learn so much from the West, why not this good practice?
Punctuality #Professionalism #AcademicConferences #Webinars #SpeakerResponsibility #EventManagement #ResearchCulture #AcademicIntegrity #QMed
