Refusing to tell last salary

I try to not tell my salary before I get to know the budget. If they decline to tell the budget and if I think that the overall company might be good for my growth I tell my salary but accordingly I say that this is my requirement and it is non negotiable.

Hmm, I would strongly recommend everyone to collectively refuse sharing. Because this is a super unethical practice that HRs indulge in. Abroad you can ask for the fair pay that the job is worth, only in india this practice exists. Its actually none of their business what current pay is. Refuse to share it and don't divulge it till they do at least a round of interview. Or just say I can't share without you sharing what is the budget compensation for this role. If the budget is too less, just hang up. If they refuse to share details, then say I am not interested. Where will they find candidates if everyone refuses. We need to collectively start doing this to solve this problem. Unless you're really desperate. I would also encourage people to keep passively applying for jobs, attend interviews and then reject them over salary these HRs really need to be taught a lesson.

I think if HR is adamant about knowing the last salary, it isn’t a great opportunity. They are more inclined to save few bucks, than hire good talent

I just tell them, not worth playing mind games with HR

I wouldn't mind sharing my salary, and would also share my expected hike along with it. I usually keep a 10-15% buffer accounting to negotiation (Tell them that this hike is non-negotiable). If they have the budget, proceed with the next rounds, if they don't, we move on.