The International Institute of Culinary Arts (IICA), New Delhi, has been honoured with the 11th FICCI Higher Education Excellence Award 2025 for Excellence in Creating Employment & Entrepreneurship (Private). This recognition highlights IICA’s dedication to shaping careers and creating opportunities for aspiring chefs and culinary entrepreneurs.

The award ceremony took place at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, and featured an inspiring special address by Dr. Mumin Chen, Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre in India. A keynote session by Mr. Raghav Gupta, Head of Education – India and Asia Pacific at OpenAI, highlighted the role of AI in transforming education and entrepreneurship.

The award was presented by Shri Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Minister of Road Transport and Highways, and received by Mr. Virender S. Datta, Founder & Chairman of IICA, along with Mr. Arjun S. Datta, Managing Director & COO of IICA.

This year’s awards were evaluated by a distinguished Grand Jury, including Dr. R. A. Mashelkar, Former Director General of CSIR; Mr. Anand Sudarshan, Founder & Director of Sylvant Advisors; Mr. Ayush Gupta, Director-HR at GAIL India; and Mr. Sudheesh Venkatesh, Chief People Officer at Azim Premji Foundation.

Mr. Virender S. Datta said, “This award recognises the hard work and dedication of our students, faculty, and partners. As we celebrate 20 years of IICA’s journey, it reflects our mission to build careers, shape futures, and lead with excellence in the culinary world.”

The category for Excellence in Creating Employment & Entrepreneurship (Private) included strong contenders such as Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology and Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies. IICA’s recognition underscores its long-standing impact and leadership in culinary and pastry education.

Mr. Arjun S. Datta added, “Our focus has always been on creating meaningful opportunities for aspiring chefs and culinary entrepreneurs. This recognition by FICCI strengthens our commitment to innovation, skill development, and global standards in shaping the next generation of culinary leaders.”

For over 20 years, IICA has been at the forefront of skill-based culinary education, creating pathways for students in India and abroad. The institute continues to blend industry relevance, innovation, and global standards to nurture talent.

Looking ahead, IICA is set to host its 40th Bi-Convocation Ceremony at Hotel Aerocity, New Delhi, celebrating its graduating students and their culinary journeys.

 amã Stays & Trails, the premium homestay brand from Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), has expanded its portfolio with a cluster of bungalows in Rishikesh and Goa. With over 300 bungalows across India, the brand continues to cater to the growing demand for experiential travel.

The expansion includes four elegant bungalows at Kashi House in Rishikesh and a serene villa in Assagao, Goa. Ms. Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President, New Businesses & Hotel Openings at IHCL, said, “With a growing portfolio of over 300 bungalows, amã Stays & Trails continues to redefine experiential leisure in India. Entering newer formats, the signing of the bungalow cluster allows us to build scale and operational synergies while offering guests diverse choices that suit their travel preferences. We are delighted to extend our partnership with Mr. Siddarth Goel and Mr. Aryan Goel for the projects in Rishikesh and Goa.”

Kashi House in Rishikesh offers a four-bungalow cluster with spacious common areas for dining and relaxation. Guests can explore the city’s iconic ghats, attend the evening Ganga Aarti, stroll through vibrant markets, or enjoy white-water rafting and guided nature walks.

Villa Assagao in Goa is a three-bedroom bungalow providing a tranquil escape with expansive living and dining areas, fully equipped kitchens, and beautifully landscaped lawns, perfect for a slow, relaxed lifestyle in a peaceful village setting.

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the launch of its latest property, Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels, Jaipur. This marks the brand’s third property in the city and 12th in Rajasthan, further expanding its presence in the state’s vibrant hospitality landscape.

The newly launched Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels, Jaipur features 50 well-appointed rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, Keys Café, a fitness centre, and other public areas, offering guests an efficient, comfortable, and value-driven stay experience.

Known as the Pink City, Jaipur stands as one of India’s most culturally rich and architecturally splendid destinations. The city earned its nickname in 1876 when its buildings were painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales, a gesture symbolising hospitality. From architectural marvels like Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Amber Fort, and Jantar Mantar (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to its colourful markets, traditional handicrafts, jewellery, textiles, and cuisine, Jaipur continues to enchant travellers worldwide.

Recently, Jaipur was ranked 5th among the world’s best cities for travellers in the Travel + Leisure “World’s Best Awards 2025”, surpassing renowned global destinations such as Florence.

Commenting on the launch, Vishvapreet Singh Cheema, President, Lemon Tree Hotels, said,

“Jaipur continues to be one of India’s most sought-after destinations, attracting both leisure and business travellers. With this new opening, our third in the city, we are delighted to strengthen our presence in Rajasthan and offer guests the brand’s signature combination of comfort, warmth, and value in a city that epitomises culture and hospitality.”