View AbstractThe primary objective of the present study is to check the conceptual understanding of family-owned businesses in India. Family-owned businesses are a significant part of the country's economy, contributing to GDP, employment, and exports. These businesses often face unique challenges, such as succession planning and governance, but they possess strengths like tradition, values, and a long-term perspective. Soft Human Resource Management (HRM) principles, emphasizing employee development and positive work culture, are pivotal in addressing these challenges and leveraging their strengths. Integrating Soft HRM in Indian familyowned businesses requires a delicate balance between tradition and modernity. It involves employee development, work-life balance, communication, and succession planning. The successful adoption of Soft HRM can improve employee satisfaction, retention, and organizational performance. Indian family-owned businesses, such as Wipro, Tata Group, Aditya Birla Group, and Godrej Consumer Products, have embraced Soft HRM practices, leading to benefits like attracting and retaining top talent, improving employee morale and productivity, and enhancing brand reputation. Research evidence underscores the positive impact of Soft HRM on employee relations and overall business performance, indicating that family-owned businesses adopting these practices are more likely to succeed in the long run. Furthermore, studies reveal that family-owned businesses outperform non-familyowned businesses in terms of resilience, investment in innovation, job creation, and community contribution. However, they also face challenges in succession planning, corporate governance, and professionalization. Soft HRM has played a crucial role in the development and success of Indian family-owned businesses, fostering employee engagement, talent retention, and sustainable growth. These businesses have evolved by prioritizing employee well-being and development, aligning with their long-term perspective, and attracting external talent. Soft HRM practices have proven to be a valuable asset in the dynamic landscape of Indian family-owned businesses.