Accor and IIHM Join Forces to Revolutionize Hospitality Education in India

Accor and IIHM Join Forces to Revolutionize Hospitality Education in India

By Author

Published on October 3, 2023

In a groundbreaking move to advance hospitality education in India, Accor and the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) have inked a momentous Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the prestigious IIHM Global Campus in Salt Lake, Kolkata. This historic agreement establishes a long-term collaboration aimed at enriching hospitality education and empowering students with extensive employment prospects across India.

The MoU was formally signed by Puneet Dhawan, Senior Vice President, Operations, Accor India & South Asia, and Dr. Suborno Bose, Founder and CEO of IIHM. This partnership unites one of the world's largest hospitality corporations with the globally renowned IIHM to foster a mutually beneficial relationship.

Puneet Dhawan, Senior Vice President, Operations, Accor India & South Asia, expressed the significance of this transformative alliance, stating, "Our partnership with IIHM represents a significant stride in nurturing future talents within the hospitality sector. We are committed to equipping young minds with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the dynamic world of hospitality."

Dr. Suborno Bose, Founder and CEO of IIHM, emphasized the importance of this historic collaboration, saying, "Becoming a top professional in the hospitality industry is a journey that demands dedication, education, and hands-on experience. The partnership with Accor India underscores our dedication to offering students the finest education and industry exposure. Together, we are shaping the future of hospitality, where education meets excellence."

IIHM will offer a 1-Year Certificate/Diploma course, inclusive of industrial training and exams, aligned with the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) and Government of India requirements. These courses will be available in Delhi NCR, Kolkata, Bangalore, Pune, Goa, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, and Hyderabad.

Accor will contribute valuable insights to IIHM to aid in the creation of industry-relevant curricula. Accor will offer industrial training opportunities, deliver guest lectures, facilitate faculty development programs, provide internships and placements in Accor-managed hotels, and offer operational exposure across its properties in India.

This collaboration between IIHM and Accor holds immense promise for the future of the Indian hospitality industry. It focuses on education, skill development, industry engagement, and, most importantly, provides emerging talent with real-world exposure to the dynamic hospitality sector.

About Accor

Accor is a globally leading hospitality group operating in over 110 countries with 5,500 properties, 10,000 food & beverage venues, wellness facilities, and flexible workspaces. The group boasts a diverse hospitality ecosystem encompassing more than 40 hotel brands, ranging from luxury to economy, including Lifestyle with Ennismore. Accor is dedicated to positive action in areas such as business ethics, responsible tourism, sustainable development, community outreach, and diversity & inclusion. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France and publicly listed on Euronext Paris (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information, visit www.group.accor.com or follow Accor on social media.

About IIHM

The International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) is a renowned hospitality education institution in India, committed to nurturing the talents and skills of future leaders in the hospitality industry. IIHM offers a range of hospitality and culinary programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in the global hospitality sector.


Taj Chandigarh Secures EarthCheck Platinum for 13 Years

Taj Chandigarh Secures EarthCheck Platinum for 13 Years

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 27, 2026

Taj Chandigarh has marked a major milestone by achieving the EarthCheck Platinum Certification for 13 consecutive years. This recognition highlights the hotel’s consistent efforts towards sustainability and responsible operations, setting it apart as a leader in eco-conscious hospitality.

The certification is awarded by EarthCheck, a globally recognised scientific benchmarking and certification body for the travel and tourism sector. Earning Platinum status is a significant achievement, given that it requires at least 10 continuous years of verified performance across key sustainability measures. By maintaining this level for 13 years, Taj Chandigarh has gone beyond the standard and strengthened its position in responsible hospitality.

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This achievement also reflects the larger vision of The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), under which Taj Chandigarh operates. Across its portfolio, IHCL has focused on reducing energy use, conserving water, and cutting down waste, all while ensuring a high-quality guest experience. The EarthCheck framework also aligns with global sustainability goals, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), making these efforts part of a broader purpose.

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Speaking on the milestone, Surinder Singh, Area Director – Operations & General Manager, Taj Chandigarh, said,

“Achieving EarthCheck Platinum Certification for 13 consecutive years is a proud milestone for us. It reflects our deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and responsible hospitality. At Taj Chandigarh, we believe that luxury and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand and this recognition reinforces our continued efforts towards creating a greener future.”

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Ankur Sharma, Chief Engineer, Taj Chandigarh, added, “This achievement is the result of consistent efforts, innovation and a strong focus on resource efficiency. From energy conservation to water management and waste reduction, our teams work tirelessly to ensure that sustainability is embedded in every aspect of our operations. We remain committed to enhancing our practices and setting new benchmarks in environmental performance.”

With travellers increasingly looking for responsible and sustainable choices, recognitions like this build trust and confidence. Taj Chandigarh’s continued success with EarthCheck Platinum not only celebrates a long-standing achievement but also sets a strong example for the hospitality industry, showing that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand.


The Leela Gandhinagar Introduces E-Cycle Experience to Promote Sustainable Luxury

The Leela Gandhinagar Introduces E-Cycle Experience to Promote Sustainable Luxury

By Hariharan U

Published on April 26, 2026

Marking Earth Day, The Leela Gandhinagar has introduced an immersive e-cycle experience in collaboration with Svitch, reinforcing its focus on sustainability-led luxury.

The initiative is designed to offer guests a low-impact, mindful way to explore Gandhinagar, encouraging slower, more conscious travel while reducing carbon footprint. By integrating eco-friendly mobility into the guest journey, the hotel continues to position sustainability as a core element of its hospitality experience.

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Set against the city’s serene surroundings, the e-cycle experience allows guests to engage more deeply with their environment, blending wellbeing, exploration, and environmental responsibility. The offering reflects a broader shift in luxury travel, where guests are increasingly seeking experiences that are both meaningful and sustainable.

Commenting on the initiative, Vikas Sood, General Manager, highlighted the hotel’s commitment to creating experiences that are enriching while embedding responsible practices into everyday operations.

The launch was complemented by an Earth Day cyclethon, bringing together guests, hotel associates, and members of the local community. The activity aimed to foster a shared sense of responsibility towards sustainable living, while encouraging active participation in eco-conscious initiatives.

Following the ride, guests experienced the hotel’s signature Aujasya breakfast, aligning the sustainability narrative with wellness-focused dining.

Through initiatives like this, The Leela Gandhinagar continues to evolve the concept of responsible luxury, where sustainability is seamlessly integrated into the guest experience, enhancing both comfort and awareness.


WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa Elevates Luxury Escapes in Kasauli

WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa Elevates Luxury Escapes in Kasauli

By Hariharan U

Published on April 25, 2026

WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa is redefining luxury getaways in the hills with its expansive offering set amidst the scenic Kasauli Hills.

Perched in the lush Shivalik range, the resort blends natural beauty with refined hospitality, offering guests a tranquil escape marked by panoramic views, fresh mountain air, and a thoughtfully curated luxury experience. Designed as a sanctuary for relaxation, the property combines modern amenities with a serene setting that encourages guests to unwind at a leisurely pace.

Operated under the WelcomHeritage umbrella since December 2022, the resort has positioned itself as a full-scale five-star destination in Solan. With 93 well-appointed rooms, the property caters to a wide range of travellers, offering accommodation options that include deluxe rooms, suites, family-friendly cottages, and an exclusive four-bedroom luxury villa.

The resort is equipped with a comprehensive range of amenities, including a luxury spa and salon, wellness centre, and an all-weather heated indoor swimming pool, along with a dedicated children’s pool. These features ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for guests across seasons.

Beyond leisure stays, the property has also emerged as a preferred venue for destination weddings, corporate conferences, and large-scale events, supported by its expansive layout and premium infrastructure.

The design philosophy strikes a balance between modern sophistication and timeless charm, creating a space that feels both elegant and inviting. From intimate vacations to grand celebrations, the resort offers an environment that blends comfort with understated luxury.

With its scenic location, comprehensive facilities, and focus on guest experience, WelcomHeritage Parv Vilas Resort & Spa stands out as a premier mountain retreat, offering travellers a refined escape in the hills.

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