In a promising collaboration, Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) and Tata Steel Foundation (TSF) are joining hands to uplift tribal home-cooks through the innovative 'Tribal Cuisines' capacity-building program. This significant endeavor is a crucial part of Tata Steel Foundation’s renowned program 'Samvaad', which has been fostering positive dialogues within tribal communities since 2014.

Gaurav Pokhariyal, IHCL's Executive Vice President of Human Resources, stated that this strategic partnership resonates well with IHCL’s ESG + framework, Paathya. The 'Tribal Cuisines' initiative strives to create a captivating mosaic of flavors, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of tribal communities. With a strong community focus, the aim is to establish an ecosystem that nurtures entrepreneurial endeavors among tribal home-cooks, allowing them to showcase their talents on a global scale.

The comprehensive six-day capacity-building program, hosted by the Institute of Hotel Management in Aurangabad, united 23 home cooks from 9 states and 11 distinct tribal communities. The curriculum encompassed a wide spectrum, including culinary techniques, industry-standard processes, nutritional insights, entrepreneurial insights, marketing strategies, food hygiene, preservation methods, and exposure to bulk cooking.

Sourav Roy, Chief Executive Officer of Tata Steel Foundation, described 'Samvaad' as a unique platform for tribal identity that emphasizes both dialogue and action. It stands with the conviction that the tribal way of life holds answers to some of our most complex questions. Roy highlighted how tribal cuisine weaves together micro-narratives of nature, empowerment, tradition, and nutrition, which this program aims to express through young individuals. The collaboration with IHCL has played a pivotal role in elevating tribal cuisine to prestigious heights across India.

IHCL, recognized as a guardian of Indian hospitality, continues its commitment through the Paathya framework, investing in building industry-relevant talent pools. This investment aims not only to develop and support deserving youths and their families but also to contribute to the overall growth of the industry.

Tata Steel Foundation, established on August 16, 2016, as a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Steel Limited, is dedicated to co-creating solutions with tribal and excluded communities to address their developmental challenges. IHCL, along with its subsidiaries, represents a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service. From the iconic Taj brand to the innovative Ginger concept, IHCL’s offerings span diverse segments within the hospitality industry.

The partnership between IHCL and Tata Steel Foundation signifies more than just a program; it’s a bridge between cultures, empowering tribal cuisines while fostering sustainable growth and inclusive progress.

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