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/

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, is continuing its efforts towards inclusive growth by expanding its skilling and employability initiatives across the country, with a strong focus on Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). The move highlights the company’s aim to support tourism while creating meaningful employment opportunities for local youth.

Mr. Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President – Human Resources, IHCL, said:

“At IHCL, we believe that skilling is a powerful catalyst for employment generation and social transformation. Our focused initiatives in Jammu & Kashmir are aimed at empowering youth with industry relevant skills, enabling them to build sustainable careers in hospitality. By fostering partnerships and creating accessible training ecosystems, we are committed to uplifting communities and contributing to the region’s long-term development.”

Under its ESG+ framework of Paathya, IHCL is working towards its goal of upskilling 100,000 youth by 2030. As part of this effort, the company has expanded its skilling network to 83 centres across India, especially in emerging destinations where tourism potential is high but access to structured training has been limited. So far, IHCL has trained over 42,000 youth, addressing the growing need for skilled professionals in the hospitality sector.

In Jammu & Kashmir, IHCL has taken several steps to create strong local opportunities. The company has partnered with REACHA, with support from the Indian Army, to set up a skill centre in Uri, offering specialised training programmes. It has also worked with Tata STRIVE to train youth in Baramulla and Kupwara, focusing on bakery and food & beverage services that match local job opportunities.

Adding to this, IHCL has collaborated with IIT Jammu to develop structured training programmes that combine academic learning with industry exposure. These initiatives are designed to prepare a future-ready workforce while also contributing to the region’s socio-economic growth.

With its growing network of 83 skilling centres, IHCL continues to invest in talent development across more than 21 states in India, including New Delhi, Bihar, Assam, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Karnataka, and Jammu & Kashmir. Through these efforts, the company is not only supporting the hospitality sector but also helping build stronger communities through skill development and employment.