The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s leading hospitality group, is on track to meet its ambitious target of training 100,000 youths for the industry by 2030. This initiative aligns with Paathya, IHCL’s framework for driving social impact alongside business sustainability.
IHCL operates 32 skill centres across 15 Indian states, partnering with governments, educational institutions, and private entities. These partnerships leverage IHCL’s industry expertise to design training content, develop faculty, and provide on-the-job experience. The model prioritises skilling underprivileged youth from socially and economically disadvantaged communities, with a focus on tribal groups.
“Guided by our founder Jamsetji Tata’s vision of building a more inclusive society,” said Gaurav Pokhariyal, IHCL’s executive vice president, HR, “we aim to bridge the employability gap for deserving youth.” He emphasised the programme’s potential for broader societal impact, particularly through increased employment opportunities.
This focus on skilling yields a dual benefit. IHCL has already successfully placed 75 per cent of the 10,000 youths it has trained in locations such as Chamoli (Uttarakhand), Chhindwara (Madhya Pradesh), and Debari (Rajasthan). This not only empowers individuals and their families but also addresses the hospitality industry’s growing demand for skilled workers.
As a custodian of Indian hospitality, IHCL’s commitment extends beyond training to nurturing talent. The company views itself as a partner in the long-term development of deserving youth, contributing to the industry’s overall growth.