McDonald’s India – North and East has strengthened its focus on youth empowerment by creating employment opportunities for over 1500 young individuals across Delhi NCR through its flagship initiative, McDonald’s for Youth. Implemented in partnership with local NGOs and community organisations, the programme has helped youth across Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad and Faridabad take their first steps into the formal workforce.

Designed to create meaningful opportunities, the initiative focuses particularly on young individuals from less privileged backgrounds by providing them with skills, confidence, and long-term growth pathways.

Launched as part of its contribution to India’s growth journey, the programme has supported many first-time job seekers by preparing them for professional environments. Through McDonald’s global training curriculum, participants receive structured learning in areas including customer service, communication skills, restaurant operations, food safety and hygiene, cash handling, teamwork, and overall professional development.

The initiative aims to provide transferable skills that support long-term employability not only within McDonald’s but across the wider service industry as well.

Speaking about the programme, Rajeev Ranjan, Managing Director, McDonald’s India – North and East, said:

"At McDonald’s India- North and East, we believe the youth deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and discover their potential. Through ‘McDonald’s for Youth,’ we work with like-minded organisations, and have supported over 2,500 young individuals in taking their first steps into the workforce. Each story of growth reminds us that meaningful opportunities can transform lives, strengthen communities, and build a foundation for a brighter future. This milestone reflects our commitment to empowering youth and creating pathways that extend far beyond the restaurant walls."

Rajesh Soundararajan, Director, Katha, also highlighted the importance of the initiative, saying:

"Delhi NCR is home to a large population of young individuals seeking access to formal employment opportunities and skill-building platforms. Through our partnership with McDonald’s, we have been able to connect youth with meaningful first-job opportunities, helping them build confidence, financial independence, and workplace readiness. We remain committed to supporting their long-term growth and ensuring this initiative continues to create impact at the grassroots level."

Since its launch, the initiative has expanded across Tier 1 and Tier 2 markets, including Delhi NCR, Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. The programme now increasingly focuses on local community outreach, where teams directly engage with nearby villages and communities to create awareness around structured employment opportunities.

Following this milestone, McDonald’s India – North and East plans to further scale the initiative and has invited NGO partners across Delhi NCR and other key markets to collaborate for the next phase of youth employment efforts.

NGOs interested in participating can reach out at: hiring.ngo@del.in.mcd.com 

Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) is continuing its efforts to empower women through skill development, steadily expanding its CSR-led initiative over the past two years. After training 150 women in FY 2024–25, the programme grew to 300 women in FY 2025–26, all of whom were successfully trained and certified. Building on this progress, THSC has now set a target to skill 600 women in FY 2026–27, strengthening its focus on inclusive workforce growth.

In FY 2025–26, certified candidates were placed with leading hospitality brands such as Hilton Hotels & Resorts, The Oberoi Group, Marriott International and Delta Corp Ltd. A notable number also secured international placements, with strong retention levels highlighting the quality of training and its alignment with industry needs.

The initiative focuses on entry-level roles across Food & Beverage Service, Front Office and Housekeeping. It combines classroom learning with practical exposure, soft skills training and industry immersion, ensuring participants are well-prepared for real-world roles. With mobilisation efforts spread across states like Assam, Manipur, West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh, the programme continues to reach women from underserved regions.

Ms. Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson, THSC, added:

"This initiative is a strong example of how structured skilling can drive real social and economic impact. Each phase has strengthened our resolve to do more, reach further, and create lasting change. As we move toward skilling 600 women in the coming year, we are committed to fostering greater inclusivity and empowering women to actively participate in the growth of the hospitality sector."

Mr. Rajan Bahadur, CEO, THSC, said:

"The consistent scale-up of this CSR initiative, from 150 to 300, and now with a target of 600—reflects both the growing demand for skilled talent in the hospitality sector and the success of our industry-aligned training approach. Through this initiative, THSC is leading by example in driving inclusive skilling and industry-relevant workforce development. Our focus remains on delivering quality training that translates into meaningful employment opportunities and sustainable careers."

The programme’s success has been supported by strong collaboration with industry partners, training institutions and implementation agencies, ensuring that it remains aligned with sector requirements while delivering consistent results.

As Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council continues to scale its efforts, the initiative stands out as a strong example of industry-led skilling, contributing to India’s broader vision of inclusive growth and workforce development.

The Institute of Bakery & Culinary Arts (IBCA) has officially opened admissions for its Culinary Arts and Bakery & Pastry Arts programs for the Academic Year 2026. The institute is inviting aspiring chefs and baking enthusiasts to apply and build their skills with guidance from experienced industry professionals.

IBCA offers a wide range of programs designed for learners at different stages. These include the 18-month Advanced Diploma in Culinary Arts (Level 3) and the 18-month Advanced Diploma in Pastry (Level 3), along with 12-month Diploma courses in Culinary Arts and Pastry Arts (Level 2). For those looking for shorter options, there is a 4-month Certificate Course in Pastry (Level 1), as well as specialised Culinary and Pastry Hobby Courses.

The institute focuses on practical learning and industry exposure. With strong connections to leading hotels and restaurants, students get hands-on training along with opportunities for placements. As part of the process, students go through selection trials and interviews towards the end of their course.

To apply, interested candidates can fill out the online application form available on the official website. Admission requirements will follow the guidelines set by the relevant regulatory bodies and may be updated when required.

For eligibility, applications for the 2026 intake are open to candidates who have passed or are appearing for their higher secondary (10+2) examinations from recognised boards such as AISSCE, IB, ICSE, CBSE or equivalent.

IBCA is affiliated with globally recognised organisations including City & Guilds, Confederation of Tourism & Hospitality, Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council and National Skills Development Corporation. These associations help provide structured training, certifications and access to placement opportunities across leading hotels and restaurants. Final placements are offered after a detailed process of trials and interviews.

The last date to apply for the 2026 intake is 31st May 2026.

Website: https://chefibpa.com/admission/