Is an Employee Handbook Necessary in India Even If It's Not Legally Required?

Is it required by law to have an employee handbook in India?

In India, it is not explicitly mandated by law to have an employee handbook. However, having an employee handbook is highly recommended as it helps in providing clear guidelines, policies, and procedures to employees. An employee handbook can serve as a valuable tool in communicating important information such as company policies, code of conduct, benefits, and expectations to employees. While not a legal requirement, an employee handbook can help in promoting consistency, transparency, and compliance within an organization.

Not necessary. It depends upon the professionalism of the establishment. Good and professionally managed companies do issue employee handbooks, which mainly contain SOPs, HR policies in brief, compensation & benefits, leave policy, and other establishment matters.

I agree with Mr. R.K. Nair. Yet, the Certified Standing Orders or the Model Standing Orders, in my opinion, serve the purpose of an Employee Handbook as far as the conditions of employment are concerned.

Both experts are correct; there is no legal requirement for issuing an employee handbook. If the standing order is not applicable, the company may or may not issue the employee handbook. This decision completely depends on the company's discretion.