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

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

Not necessary. It depends upon the professionalism of the establishment. Good and professionally managed companies do issue Enployee hand book , which contain, mainly 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, serves the purpose of an Employee Hand Book so far as the conditions of employment are concerned.

Both experts are correct, no legal requirement for issuing employee handbook.
If the standing order is not applicable then company may or may not issue the employee handbook.
Completely depending upon the company's decision.