In a major boost to gender inclusivity in the hospitality industry, the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) has successfully completed its women empowerment initiative, announced during its 10th anniversary celebrations in August 2024. The project, aimed at skilling and placing 150 women, has achieved full implementation, with all candidates now employed across prestigious brands like Hilton Hotels, The Oberoi Hotels & Resorts, Deltin Casino & Resorts, Raffles Udaipur, and Ritz-Carlton Bangalore.

Each participant has secured jobs with a monthly starting salary between INR 15,000 to INR 25,000, enabling them to embark on dignified and sustainable career paths in the formal tourism and hospitality sector.

Following the program’s resounding success, THSC has announced an ambitious expansion—the initiative will now scale up to train 300 more women in 2025, reinforcing the council’s long-term commitment to gender empowerment through skill development.

"Placing 150 women across India's top hospitality brands is a proud milestone for us," said Mr. Rajan Bahadur, CEO, THSC. "This initiative goes beyond job creation—it represents transformation, empowerment, and the promise of a more inclusive workforce."

The initiative offered training for key hospitality roles such as Guest Service Associate – Housekeeping, Front Office, and Food & Beverage Service. In addition to technical training, candidates also received soft skills training in communication, teamwork, and workplace etiquette, ensuring holistic preparation for their professional journey.

Ms. Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson of THSC, added, "Empowering women through skill development is not just a mission—it is a movement toward a more equitable and progressive industry. This initiative shows how skills can truly transform lives."

The program’s success was made possible through strong industry collaboration, with placement support from leading hospitality brands and operational support from The Job Plus, whose on-ground execution played a crucial role in achieving the program’s objectives.

As THSC steps into a new decade of skilling excellence, this initiative serves as a powerful example of how focused efforts, strategic partnerships, and a shared vision can shape a more inclusive and empowered future for India’s hospitality sector.

Tivoli Hospitality Group has announced the expansion of its signature destination wedding concept, ‘Wedcation by Tivoli’, with a new property in Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand. The move reinforces Tivoli’s commitment to experiential, nature-inspired hospitality while strengthening its presence in India’s growing destination wedding segment.

The new property promises to be more than just a wedding venue—it’s designed as a hybrid retreat that blends celebratory experiences with serene getaways, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.

"This collaboration marks a strategic initiative to expand into experiential, destination-driven hospitality," said Akshay Gupta, Executive Director, Tivoli Hospitality Group. "It was a natural progression shaped by evolving consumer desires for immersive and meaningful celebrations."

Nestled in the tranquil forests of Jim Corbett, the resort will offer 70 rooms, banqueting facilities for up to 500 guests, a gourmet restaurant, recreation zones, and eco-friendly infrastructure. Guests can expect thoughtfully curated experiences such as jungle safaris, nature walks, and yoga by the river, alongside bespoke wedding services.

"We see weddings not just as events, but as multi-day experiences," Gupta shared. "Our aim is to offer a balance between vibrant celebrations and the calming rhythm of nature."

This new addition joins Tivoli’s growing portfolio, which includes flagship locations across NCR and Tier 2 markets like Israna, Ambala, and Palwal. With each property, Tivoli blends local charm with its hallmark luxury standards, crafting memorable experiences for every guest.

The Jim Corbett venture is part of a strategic partnership with a local stakeholder, wherein Tivoli leads operations, guest experience, and marketing, while the partner supports infrastructure and regional compliance.

"The property stands out through its integration of outdoor spaces, customised wedding setups, and eco-conscious accommodations," Gupta explained. "This destination will also welcome leisure travellers, adventure seekers, and wellness enthusiasts."

Reflecting Tivoli’s dedication to sustainability, the resort will prioritise green building materials, energy efficiency, and responsible tourism practices. "We want guests to connect with nature while preserving it," Gupta added.

With 'Wedcation by Tivoli' in Jim Corbett, the brand is redefining how India celebrates love—where luxury meets the wild, and each celebration is an unforgettable, holistic experience.

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s leading hospitality group, has announced the signing of a new 125-key Ginger hotel in Bommasandra, Bengaluru. Strategically located in the heart of the Jigani Industrial Area, the upcoming hotel will offer seamless access to the region's prominent commercial and industrial zones. The greenfield project is being developed in collaboration with Laxminarayan Sherugar, founder and managing director of the Mallik Group of Companies.

Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, shared, “With new infrastructure projects and enhanced connectivity, Bengaluru continues to be a key market for IHCL. This signing in the industrial area of Bommasandra aligns with our strategy to strengthen our presence in emerging micro-markets. We are delighted to partner with Mr. Sherugar on this development.”

The new hotel will follow Ginger’s lean luxe design philosophy, combining stylish, contemporary interiors with a focus on functionality. Guests can expect vibrant spaces that blend work and leisure, along with amenities such as Qmin, the signature all-day diner, a bar, meeting rooms, and a fitness centre.

Laxminarayan Sherugar, a qualified mechanical engineer and the visionary behind the Mallik Group of Companies, said, “We are excited to collaborate with IHCL to cater to the needs of the modern traveller.” His companies serve OEMs in sectors including elevators, escalators, railways, and healthcare.

Known as the Silicon Valley of India, Bengaluru is a thriving centre for IT, biotechnology, aerospace, and innovation. With this addition, IHCL’s portfolio in Karnataka now stands at 26 hotels, including 13 under development, reflecting its sustained commitment to expanding across key markets.