Revolutionizing Hospitality Education: THSC and GD Goenka University Join Forces

Revolutionizing Hospitality Education: THSC and GD Goenka University Join Forces

By Author

Published on November 30, 2023

The Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the renowned School of Hospitality and Tourism at GD Goenka University. This collaboration is a significant leap forward, integrating skill courses seamlessly into Bachelor’s Degree and Diploma programs. The partnership aims to bridge the gap between industry demands and academic offerings, aligning with the goals outlined in the National Education Policy.

Rajan Bahadur, CEO of THSC, expressed excitement about embedding practical skills into academic programs. This collaboration has the potential to revolutionize hospitality and tourism education, creating a workforce that is not just well-educated but also highly skilled. The initiative focuses on providing students with a comprehensive education, blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills to prepare them for the ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality and tourism industry.

The joint effort involves designing and implementing skill-based courses within the curriculum of Bachelor’s Degree and Diploma programs. This strategic collaboration ensures that students receive a well-rounded education, making them adept at handling the challenges and opportunities in the dynamic fields of hospitality and tourism.

As Bahadur addressed the students, he emphasized the transformative power of skilling education, shedding light on the vast opportunities available in the hospitality and tourism sector. The focus was on the importance of acquiring practical skills, setting students apart in a competitive job market.

This collaboration stands as a testament to the commitment of both THSC and GD Goenka University in fostering excellence in education and preparing students for successful careers in the vibrant and ever-growing industries of hospitality and tourism.


Innu Lama Appointed Cluster L&D Manager for Hilton Bengaluru Portfolio

Innu Lama Appointed Cluster L&D Manager for Hilton Bengaluru Portfolio

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

Hilton has announced the appointment of Innu Lama as Cluster Learning & Development Manager for its Bengaluru portfolio. Her role will span multiple properties, including Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, Hilton Bangalore Embassy GolfLinks, Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Tech Village, and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Tech Village.

Innu Lama brings extensive experience in learning and development across both luxury hospitality and healthcare sectors. She most recently served at Conrad Bengaluru as Learning & Development Manager, where she led leadership training programmes, structured onboarding initiatives, and compliance-focused learning frameworks.

Her career journey also includes key roles at Shangri-La Hotel Bengaluru, Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru, and Sheraton Grand Bengaluru. Across these organisations, she contributed to enhancing service standards, strengthening quality assurance, and building high-performing teams.

Recognised for her strategic outlook and collaborative leadership style, Innu has consistently focused on embedding learning into business outcomes while elevating guest experience standards.

In her new role, she will lead the cluster’s learning strategy, with a strong emphasis on leadership development, talent progression, and cultivating a robust service culture. Her responsibilities include designing and implementing training programmes aligned with Hilton’s global brand standards, while ensuring operational excellence and audit readiness across properties.

This appointment reflects Hilton’s continued commitment to investing in people development and fostering a culture of continuous learning across its Bengaluru cluster.

Part of a global hospitality network, Hilton operates more than 6,800 properties across 122 countries. Its dual-branded presence at Embassy Manyata Business Park, launched in 2022, stands out as one of South India’s largest hotel complexes, offering expansive convention facilities and strategic connectivity within the city.


Novotel Hyderabad Airport Secures Green Key Renewal for Third Consecutive Year

Novotel Hyderabad Airport Secures Green Key Renewal for Third Consecutive Year

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

Novotel Hyderabad Airport has successfully renewed its Green Key Certification for the third consecutive year, reaffirming its long-term commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable hospitality. The hotel also holds the distinction of being the first in South India and the third in the country to receive this globally recognised eco-label.

Unlike one-time accolades, the Green Key renewal demands consistent year-on-year progress across key sustainability metrics. From energy efficiency and water conservation to waste management and community engagement, the certification reflects measurable impact and continuous improvement.

At the core of the hotel’s approach is a structured sustainability framework that integrates eco-conscious practices into daily operations, infrastructure, and guest experiences. Over time, the property has implemented several impactful initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint.

Energy efficiency measures include the use of 100% non-CFC coolants for air conditioning and the installation of over 6,000 LED bulbs across the property. Solar energy plays a significant role, with 200 solar panels powering water heating systems to meet the building’s requirements.

Water conservation remains a major focus area. With 1,500 aerators installed, the hotel saves up to 10,000 litres of water daily. Rainwater harvesting systems contribute to groundwater recharge, while treated water from the in-house sewage treatment plant is reused for landscaping, accounting for nearly 140 kilolitres per day.

The hotel has also embraced circular, low-waste practices. Its in-house water bottling plant using glass bottles helps eliminate nearly 30,000 plastic bottles each month. Organic waste is converted into manure for a 2,500 sq. ft. herb garden, which supports the hotel’s culinary operations and is maintained using recycled water.

In line with greener mobility, the property offers EV charging infrastructure and electric vehicles for guest transport, along with eco-friendly cycling options that encourage low-impact exploration.

Commenting on the milestone, Sukhbir Singh, General Manager, Novotel Hyderabad Airport, said, “Securing the Green Key renewal for the third year is a strong validation of our team's consistent work behind the scenes. At Novotel Hyderabad Airport, sustainability is part of how we design systems, manage resources, and engage with guests. Each year, we aim to refine our practices and create a hospitality environment that is efficient, responsible, and built for the long term.”

As sustainability continues to shape global hospitality standards, Novotel Hyderabad Airport remains focused on aligning its operations with evolving environmental expectations, demonstrating that guest comfort and long-term ecological responsibility can go hand in hand.


IHCL Expands Footprint with Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham Opening

IHCL Expands Footprint with Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham Opening

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced the opening of Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham, marking a significant addition to Gujarat’s evolving hospitality landscape. Spread across 17 acres, the hotel is positioned as a tranquil green retreat catering to both business and leisure travellers.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the location, Leah Tata, Vice President & Brand Leader, Gateway Hotels & Resorts, IHCL, noted that Gandhidham serves as a key urban hub supporting maritime trade and regional commerce. She added that the hotel is well placed to meet the rising demand driven by the region’s economic growth.

The 93-key property blends regional design influences with contemporary comfort. Surrounded by landscaped lawns and fountains, the hotel offers thoughtfully designed rooms that reflect local character while delivering a relaxed stay experience.

Dining at the hotel is anchored by Urban Masala, the all-day multi-cuisine restaurant that brings together local specialities and global favourites, along with chef-curated signature dishes. Guests can also enjoy a range of leisure amenities including a swimming pool, fitness centre, and spa.

For social and corporate gatherings, the hotel features versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces, making it suitable for celebrations, conferences, and business meetings alike.

Sandeep Makroo, General Manager, Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham, shared, “We look forward to welcoming guests to Gateway Kandla, Gandhidham and delivering a stay defined by comfort and warm hospitality.

With proximity to key attractions such as Rann of Kutch, Vijay Vilas Palace, and Mandvi Beach, the hotel also offers travellers an entry point to explore the cultural and natural richness of the region.

As part of IHCL’s expansive portfolio, the Gateway brand continues to strengthen its presence across emerging destinations, offering full-service hotels that combine comfort, accessibility, and authentic hospitality experiences.

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