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.

Kangra is set to witness a significant boost in its hospitality landscape with the development of a ₹180 crore five-star hotel under an Asian Development Bank (ADB) project, as announced by R S Bali, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC).

The announcement was made following a board meeting of the corporation, highlighting a major step forward in strengthening tourism infrastructure in the region. The upcoming property, set against the scenic foothills of the Dhauladhar Range, will be developed as a premium five-star hotel.

According to Bali, the project will feature the state’s first musical fountain, adding a unique experiential element to the development. The tender for the project, one of the largest hospitality initiatives in the state, is expected to be finalised on April 6.

Beyond Kangra, the corporation is also investing in upgrading its existing hospitality portfolio. In Shimla, ₹45 crore has been allocated for the renovation of Hotel Holiday Home, with approvals already secured from the central government.

Renovation efforts are also underway in Manali, where three properties are being upgraded to enhance guest experience and infrastructure standards. Additionally, ₹20 crore will be invested in Hotel Hamir, while ₹35 crore has been earmarked for the development of facilities at Jwalamukhi.

As part of its broader modernization strategy, HPTDC has also approved the establishment of a 24/7 call centre to improve customer service and accessibility for travellers.

The new developments reflect a strong push by the state to position Himachal Pradesh as a premium tourism destination, combining natural beauty with upgraded hospitality infrastructure.