Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with SETU AAYOG, Government of Uttarakhand, to establish a hospitality skill-training centre in Nainital. This initiative aims to provide industry-relevant training and promote employment in the hospitality sector.
Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President at IHCL, stated, “Uttarakhand is a well-established tourism destination with vast potential for employment generation in the hospitality sector. In line with IHCL’s ESG+ framework of Paathya, this upcoming skill centre will empower the region’s youth with industry-relevant training, encouraging inclusive growth while contributing to India’s travel and tourism economy.”
The project involves collaboration between several entities including Tata STRIVE as the implementation partner and Kumaun University providing infrastructure support. The Departments of Skill Development and Higher Education from the Government of Uttarakhand will fund operations. Over three years, the centre plans to train over 500 youth through courses in Food & Beverage Service, Front Office, and Kitchen, supplemented by hostel facilities and internships.
Raj Shekhar Joshi, Vice Chairman of SETU Aayog, commented on the partnership: “This initiative is a step forward in aligning industry and academia for job creation and regional economic growth. Through this partnership, Uttarakhand is setting a benchmark for collaborative, industry-driven and outcome-driven skilling.”
Ameya Vanjari, COO of Tata STRIVE added that “this collaboration will open meaningful career pathways for the youth of the hills and create a ripple effect in local development.”
IHCL’s commitment under its ESG+ framework includes partnering for 53 skill centres across India with an aim to train 100,000 youth by 2030.
