What goes into a good employee handbook for an Indian startup?

A good employee handbook sets out how the organisation works and what employees can expect, in clear and accessible language. Core sections typically include the company’s values and code of conduct, employment terms, working hours and attendance, leave policy, payroll and reimbursement processes, performance and growth, and the statutory policies required by law.

For an Indian startup, certain inclusions are effectively mandatory or strongly advisable: a POSH (anti-harassment) policy, leave entitlements aligned to the applicable state law, data and confidentiality expectations, and clear grievance and disciplinary procedures. Keep it practical and current rather than exhaustive, write it in plain language, and treat it as a living document updated as the company grows and as the law — such as the new labour codes — evolves.