Belonging by design: PhonePe Is building an LGBTQIA+ inclusive workplace that lasts

At PhonePe, inclusion isn’t a program or seasonal initiative; it’s part of how the company works, collaborates, and shows up for its employees. The organization believes that people do their best work when they are able to show up as their full selves, without hesitation or fear. That philosophy has guided its ongoing commitment to LGBTQIA+ inclusion: a journey shaped not just by policies, but by community-building, intentional design, and everyday behaviors that reinforce dignity, safety, and belonging.

PhonePe’s policies form the foundation of this commitment. They are gender-neutral, inclusive, and designed to support diverse identities and family structures. Medical and critical illness insurance covers same-sex partners. Gender affirmation procedures are supported with coverage of up to Rs 3 lakh per family, along with access to hormonal therapy under the insured sum. Parental leave extends to adoptive parents and same-sex partners, ensuring every family receives equal care. These benefits create an environment where employees can focus on their well-being and personal journeys without additional barriers.

Culture plays an equally important role. PhonePe’s LGBTQ+ representation continues to grow in strength and has doubled over the past year. Its LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Group, ‘Queer and Here’, has expanded significantly over the years, bringing more community members together and creating visibility that encourages others to share their identities openly. Regular meet-ups, conversations, and engagement activities organized by the ERG help build trust and connection across the organization.

In addition to community spaces, PhonePe offers dedicated support channels for well-being. The ‘Safe Space’ initiative provides a confidential forum for LGBTQ+ PhonePe-rs to express themselves, seek guidance, or talk through personal experiences. Access to queer-affirmative mental health professionals ensures sensitive, informed care through one-on-one counselling. Peer support systems, including Queer Support Groups and guided parental support groups facilitated by their wellness partner Silver Oak, offer employees a chance to connect with others on similar journeys.

Learning and awareness also remain central to PhonePe’s inclusion efforts. The organization regularly hosts sessions on inclusive language, allyship, understanding microaggressions, and awareness. These programs encourage employees to listen, reflect, and support one another with empathy. Resources such as the Allyship Handbook, LGBTQIA+ Manager Toolkit, and annual LGBTQ+ Inclusion Survey give individuals and teams the tools to build inclusive behaviors and measure how the organization is progressing. Insights from these surveys guide future initiatives, ensuring that each year builds meaningfully on the last.

The intention is designed as is the workplace. PhonePe’s offices reflect the company’s values through inclusive infrastructure, including gender-neutral washrooms that promote comfort, respect, and dignity for all employees.

While the focus on inclusion continues throughout the year, Pride Month brings an opportunity to celebrate identity, community, and the progress that PhonePe is making with its employees. Under this year’s theme, ‘Belong. Thrive!’, the company hosted events, activities, and learning sessions across campuses. These moments highlighted authenticity, storytelling, and joy, reminding employees of the importance of visibility and shared experiences.

PhonePe’s efforts recently received national recognition at India Workplace Equality Index (IWEI) 2025 where the organization was named a Silver Employer at the forum, marking its second consecutive year earning this honor. The Silver distinction is awarded to organizations that demonstrate depth, consistency, and measurable impact in advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion across policies, culture, hiring, and communication. This reflects the dedication of the company’s teams and leadership, and reinforces the ongoing commitment to strengthening inclusion with intention and care.

As PhonePe continues its journey, the focus remains on creating a workplace where authenticity is welcomed, identity is respected, and every PhonePe-r feels fully seen and supported.