Talents

Manicklal Chakraborty

Sr Faculty

25th September 2024

The Unspoken Truth: Challenges Facing Hotel Management Education

BRIEF INTRUDUCTION TO MANAGEMENT

Management studies encompass various disciplines that focus on Planning, Organizing, leading, and controlling of organizational goals. Indian Management studies guru one such leader lived from 350 to 275 B.C. and his teachings make sense for the business world today. This person was Chanakya. Chanakya wasn't just the advisor to a king, he was actually a king maker. He was a religious scholar, economics wizard, and military strategist, all rolled into one.

KEY MANAGEMENT CONCEPT 1. Leadership 2. Motivation 3. Communication 4. Decision – Making 5. Problem Solving 7. Team Work 8. Innovation 9. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) 10. Emotional Intelligence

All these management Syllabus Studies provides a foundation for understanding organizational behaviour, strategy, and operation, if you look at these qualities are needed to became Successful hospitality management Professional Hotel and Catering Management (HCM) is often perceived as less complex compared to traditional science or Social science degree like BSc (Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Sociology, etc.). However this perception overlooks the unique challenges and complexities of the Hospitality Industry.

WHY HOTEL and CATERING MANAGEMENT IS CONSIDERED MANAGEMENT STUDIES: Because the fact is Compare to any other studies HM Management courses are integrated to

  1. INTERDICIPLINARY APPROACH: Hotel Management Combines business, social science, and practical skills to manage hospitality operation
  2. SERVICE ORIENTED INDUSTRY: Hospitality requires managing human interactions, emotions, and experiences, making it inherently complex. 
  3. OPERATIONAL COMPLEXITY: Hotel and Restaurants involve managing multiple departments (Front Office, Food and Beverage Housekeeping, etc.). Supply chain and logistic 
  4. STRATEGIC DECITION – MAKING: HCM professional must balance financial, marketing, and operational strategies to ensure profitability 5. 
  5. LEADERSHIP AND TEAM WORK: Effective management of diverse teams, conflict resolutions, and leadership qualities are crucial
  6. ADAPTABILITY AND PROBLEM SOLVING: Hospitality professionals face unpredictable situations, requiring creative problem solving and adaptability COMPARING WITH TRADITIONAL DEGREES: While traditional degrees focus on theoretical foundations, Whereas HCM emphasizes practical application and hands on training 

SIMILARITIES WITH OTHER MANAGEMENT STUDIES:

  1. Business principle: HCM shares commonalities with business management, marketing, and finance
  2. Organizational Behaviour: understanding human behaviour, motivation, and team work is essential 
  3. Strategic management: HCM professionals develop strategic plan to drive business growth 

UNIQUE ASPECT OF HOTEL AND CATERING MANAGEMENT

  1. Service Quality management
  2. Customer Relationship management 
  3. Food and Beverage management 
  4. Event Management 
  5. Hospitality and law regulations 

Therefore Hotel and Catering is indeed a management study that requires unique blend of business acumen, practical skill, and interpersonal expertise. While it may differ from traditional science or social science degrees, HCM presents its own set of complexities and challenges Hence it’s clear that Hotel Management studies Separating “FACT from Fiction”

  1. Hotel Catering Management (HCM) is NOT inherently simple or easy compare to any other degree
  2. The title “Management studies” reflect the interdisciplinary approach and strategic decision – making involved 
  3. HCM professional require a distinct set of skills, Knowledge and competencies to excel in the hospitality industry 

Therefore, all I request my fellow student who joined to study Hotel Management –that you got an admission but, fact is Supply and demand elasticity plays, due to high demand of employment opportunities in this industry will never fade, If Admission criteria tighten with aptitude test then the level of this course may go high. Further those who join with inadequate idea of HCM read carefully request to understand the fact change yourself, “the truth About Hotel and Catering Management Education “Expectation vs Reality” if you fail to understand that may lead fail to concentrate your studies, that Difficult to meet the industry demands you may not be fulfil your dream in Hospitality Industry. I also request to NCHMCT accreditation and strict regulation, and the role of AICTE and UGC to take further step to promoting Hospitality, Hotel and Catering Management courses are rewarding career and find the way to reach out the bright students choose the course What will be the Conclusion and Solution? Raise the awareness: we must engage the people and acknowledge the Issue, I hope and believe my article may raise the awareness that, motivate the educators and policy maker to to implement reforms further I request the help in this noble cause.

What is Management Studies? Why Do We Call Hotel and Catering Study Management? Brief Introduction to Management: Management studies encompass various disciplines focused on planning, organizing, leading, and controlling organizational goals. One of the earliest Indian management gurus was Chanakya, who lived between 350 and 275 B.C. His teachings remain relevant in today’s business world. Chanakya was not only an advisor to a king but also a kingmaker. He was a religious scholar, an expert in economics, and a military strategist, all combined into one. Key Management Concepts: Leadership Motivation Communication Decision-Making Problem-Solving Teamwork Innovation Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Emotional Intelligence These management concepts provide a foundation for understanding organizational behavior, strategy, and operations. If you look at these qualities, they are also essential to becoming a successful hospitality management professional. Hotel and Catering Management (HCM) is often seen as less complex compared to traditional science or social science degrees, such as BSc in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, or Sociology. However, this perception overlooks the unique challenges and complexities of the hospitality industry.

Why Hotel and Catering Management is Considered a Management Study: Here are the reasons why Hotel and Catering Management is classified as part of management studies: Interdisciplinary Approach: Hotel Management combines business, social science, and practical skills to manage hospitality operations. Service-Oriented Industry: The hospitality sector requires managing human interactions, emotions, and experiences, making it inherently complex. Operational Complexity: Hotels and restaurants involve managing multiple departments, such as Front Office, Food and Beverage, and Housekeeping, along with supply chain and logistics. Strategic Decision-Making: HCM professionals must balance financial, marketing, and operational strategies to ensure profitability. Leadership and Teamwork: Effective management of diverse teams, conflict resolution, and strong leadership qualities are crucial. Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Hospitality professionals often face unpredictable situations, requiring creative problem-solving and adaptability. Comparing HCM with Traditional Degrees: While traditional degrees focus more on theoretical foundations, HCM emphasizes practical application and hands-on training.

Similarities with Other Management Studies: Business Principles: HCM shares many principles with business management, marketing, and finance. Organizational Behavior: Understanding human behavior, motivation, and teamwork is essential in both fields. Strategic Management: HCM professionals develop strategic plans to drive business growth. Unique Aspects of Hotel and Catering Management: Service Quality Management Customer Relationship Management Food and Beverage Management Event Management Hospitality Law and Regulations Conclusion: Separating "Fact from Fiction" in Hotel and Catering Management: Hotel and Catering Management (HCM) is NOT inherently simple or easier compared to other degrees. The term “Management Studies” reflects the interdisciplinary approach and strategic decision making involved in HCM. HCM professionals require a distinct set of skills, knowledge, and competencies to succeed in the hospitality industry. To Students Pursuing Hotel Management: While you've secured admission into this field, understand that the high demand for employment opportunities in the hospitality industry ensures that the field will never fade. However, if the admission criteria, such as aptitude tests, are made stricter, the level of this course will rise further.

For those who joined with little knowledge about HCM, I urge you to change your perception and understand the reality. Failure to grasp the complexities may lead to difficulties in meeting industry demands, and you may struggle to fulfill your dream in the hospitality sector. A Call to Action: I request NCHMCT accreditation bodies, AICTE, and UGC to take steps to promote Hospitality, Hotel, and Catering Management courses as rewarding careers. It's important to attract bright students to these courses.

Conclusion and Solution: Raise Awareness: We must engage people and acknowledge the issues in this sector. I hope my article will raise awareness and motivate educators and policymakers to implement reforms. I invite everyone to join in this noble cause.

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Manicklal Chakraborty

Sr Faculty

13th September 2024

Sustainability - PRACTICE IN HOTEL INDUSTRY

"Today, wherever we attend any function, everyone talks about sustainability. However, I feel that most people associate sustainability primarily with environmental science and often fail to realize that it encompasses a broader range of areas. Sustainability also refers to the ability to continuously maintain or support various aspects over time, including in the way we conduct business. We must learn to improve our future development to ensure that resources and opportunities are available for future generations."

To address the growing interest in sustainability, especially among students and professionals in the hospitality industry, it's essential to explore specific practices that hotels can adopt to align with social responsibility and environmental stewardship. Here are some sustainable practices the hospitality industry can implement: Energy Efficiency: Hotels can install energy-efficient lighting (LEDs), use smart thermostats, and employ energy-saving appliances. Solar power and renewable energy sources are also great long- term solutions. 

Water Conservation: Water-saving fixtures such as low-flow showerheads and faucets can reduce water consumption. Additionally, promoting towel and linen reuse programs for guests can further minimize water waste. Waste Reduction: Reducing food waste by monitoring inventory, encouraging sustainable sourcing, and donating leftovers to local communities can make a significant impact. Hotels can also minimize single-use plastics by offering alternatives like reusable cutlery and biodegradable packaging.

Eco-friendly Products: Using eco-certified cleaning products and toiletries, and offering organic and locally sourced food options, aligns the hotel with sustainable goals. This helps reduce the hotel's carbon footprint and supports the local economy. Sustainable Building Design: Incorporating green building practices such as using recycled materials, maximizing natural light, and optimizing insulation can make the infrastructure more sustainable.

Community Engagement: Supporting local communities through initiatives such as hosting environmental awareness events, engaging in local sustainability projects, and supporting local businesses can reinforce a hotel's social responsibility. Guest Education: Encourage guests to participate in sustainable activities by informing them about the hotel's sustainability initiatives, such as eco-friendly practices and offering carbon offset programs. These practices not only contribute to sustainability but also appeal to the growing demographic of environmentally conscious travelers.

To address the growing interest in sustainability, especially among students and professionals in the hospitality industry, it's essential to explore specific practices that hotels can adopt to align with social responsibility and environmental stewardship. Here are some sustainable practices the hospitality industry can implement:

 A) CONTINUE STAFF TRAINING  

Continuing staff training is indeed crucial in the hotel industry, as staff are the backbone of any successful operation. Here's an expanded look at the significance of ongoing training and its long- term benefits:

  1. Enhancing Guest Experience Well-trained staff is more confident and capable of providing exceptional service, which directly impacts guest satisfaction. Guests are more likely to return to a hotel where they feel valued and safe, thanks to the professionalism and attentiveness of the staff. Repeat business is often driven by personal connections and trust built with long-serving employees, as guests appreciate familiarity and consistent service.
  2. Building Loyalty and Retention Continuous training helps staff stay engaged and motivated, reducing turnover rates. Employees who feel that their skills are valued and developed are more likely to remain loyal to the organization. Hotels benefit from retaining long-term staff, as familiar faces and experienced personnel contribute to a stable work environment and build trust with returning guests.
  3. Improving Safety and Security Safety and security are top priorities for guests. Ongoing training ensures that staff are up-to-date with the latest safety protocols, emergency procedures, and security technologies. When guests feel secure, it enhances their overall experience and encourages positive reviews, word-of-mouth recommendations, and repeat visits.
  4. Adapting to Industry Changes The hospitality industry is constantly evolving with new technologies, sustainability practices, and customer service trends. Continuous training keeps staff informed about these changes, allowing them to adapt and excel in their roles. For example, as hotels adopt more digital tools (like online check-ins, contactless payments, and guest apps), training ensures staff can operate these systems efficiently and assist guests smoothly.
  5. Cost vs. Long-Term Benefits Although continuous training requires an upfront investment, the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. Properly trained staff reduces operational errors, improve service quality, and contribute to a more seamless guest experience. The cost of recruitment and on boarding new employees is often much higher than retaining existing staff through on-going development. Training programs enhance staff loyalty, reducing turnover costs and preserving valuable expertise within the organization.
  6. Empowering Staff to Upsell and Enhance Business Well-trained employees are also better equipped to understand guests' needs and preferences, allowing them to upsell services such as room upgrades, spa treatments, and dining experiences. This not only enhances guest satisfaction but also increases the hotel's revenue. Confident staff members are more likely to recommend additional services in a way that feels genuine and helpful to guests.   

Investing in continuous staff training is a long-term strategy that yields significant returns. It leads to higher guest satisfaction, improved safety, employee loyalty, and operational efficiency. Ultimately, it creates a positive feedback loop where satisfied staff led to satisfied guests, which in turn grows the business. 

B.) VOCAL FOR LOCAL

Supporting and engaging with the local community is a powerful strategy for hotels, as it fosters mutual growth and sustainability. Here’s how hotels can effectively collaborate with their local communities for long-term benefits:

  1. Building Trust and Confidence Engage with local suppliers: By sourcing products like food, beverages, and materials from local vendors, hotels can boost the local economy and ensure fresher, high-quality supplies. This also promotes the region’s identity and builds strong, lasting relationships with suppliers. Hire local talent: Prioritizing local recruitment not only provides jobs but also taps into the community's deep knowledge of the area, enhancing the guest experience by offering authentic insights into the local culture, traditions, and attractions.
  2. Promoting Sustainable Tourism Eco-friendly practices: Partnering with local businesses to implement sustainable tourism practices can reduce environmental impact. This might include collaborating on conservation efforts, supporting local farms that use sustainable agriculture, and promoting eco-friendly tours and experiences for guests. Cultural preservation: Working with local artisans and cultural groups to offer experiences, workshops, or crafts within the hotel helps preserve the community’s cultural heritage. Guests appreciate these authentic, locally-driven experiences, which enhances the hotel's unique appeal.
  3. Mutual Growth and Prosperity Boosting the local economy: A strong collaboration between hotels and local businesses promotes a cycle of mutual prosperity. The hotel benefits from unique, locally sourced products and services, while local businesses gain increased exposure and a steady flow of customers through hotel partnerships. Social responsibility: Supporting the community through charitable initiatives, such as sponsoring local events, contributing to local education or healthcare projects, and participating in local environmental efforts, strengthens the hotel’s image and establishes it as a socially responsible business. 
  4. Enhancing Guest Experience Local experiences and attractions: Partnering with local tour guides, adventure companies, and restaurants to offer guests exclusive deals or unique local experiences makes the hotel a gateway to the community. This encourages guests to explore the area, benefiting both the hotel and the local economy. Showcasing local talent: Hosting events featuring local musicians, artists, or chefs can provide memorable experiences for guests while promoting the talent of the region. This adds a distinctive flavor to the guest experience and supports local creativity. 5. Long-Term Sustainability Supporting local innovation: By engaging with local entrepreneurs and startups, hotels can be at the forefront of innovative, sustainable solutions. For example, working with local green energy providers, water conservation initiatives, or waste management startups not only benefits the environment but strengthens the hotel’s brand as a sustainable leader. Creating a loyal customer base: By aligning with local values and supporting the community, hotels can build strong ties with locals, who may become loyal customers and ambassadors of the hotel through word-of-mouth and recommendations

Encouraging collaboration with the local community is a win-win for hotels. It promotes sustainable development, boosts the local economy, and enhances guest experiences by offering authentic, community-driven initiatives. This fosters trust and mutual growth, ensuring long-term prosperity for both the hotel and its surrounding community.

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NASIMUL HSARKAR

General Manager

9th September 2024

Click Hotels Bengaluru: A Beacon of Excellence for Modern Travelers

In the bustling landscape of Bengaluru's hospitality sector, Click Hotels stands out as a prime choice for discerning travelers, thanks in no small part to the exemplary leadership of Nasimul H. Sarkar, General Manager of Click Hotels Bengaluru. Under his stewardship, the hotel has earned a reputation for exceptional guest relations and a commitment to ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

Nasimul H. Sarkar’s approach to hotel management is a blend of professionalism and empathy, qualities that have significantly contributed to the establishment's stellar reputation. His dedication to fostering a welcoming environment has not only enhanced guest satisfaction but has also positioned Click Hotels as a preferred choice among business travelers and frequent visitors to Bengaluru.

Bengaluru, often hailed as India’s Tech City, is a hub for business and innovation. In this dynamic setting, Click Hotels Bengaluru has emerged as a standout accommodation option. The hotel’s success is driven by its strategic location, just 6 kilometers from the Kempegowda International Airport, making it an ideal choice for those traveling for business or leisure. The property’s proximity to major business districts and tech parks adds to its appeal, ensuring convenience for both regular patrons and new-age business travelers.

"We are incredibly proud to be part of the Suba Group of Hotels," Nasimul H. Sarkar stated. "Our mission at Click Hotels Bengaluru is to offer a superior stay experience that meets the needs of our guests. From high-speed Wi-Fi to luxurious shower experiences, we aim to provide everything our guests need for a comfortable and productive stay."

The hotel’s commitment to quality extends beyond its physical amenities. The empathetic approach of the staff and the consistent positive feedback from guests reflect the high standards set by Sarkar and his team. The emphasis on guest comfort and satisfaction is evident in every aspect of the hotel’s operation, from the personalized service to the thoughtfully designed guest rooms.

As the hospitality industry continues to evolve, Click Hotels Bengaluru remains dedicated to adapting to the needs of modern travelers. With its blend of strategic location, outstanding service, and a focus on quality, the hotel is well-positioned to continue its success and maintain its status as a top choice for both business and leisure travelers in Bengaluru.

In summary, Nasimul H. Sarkar’s leadership has been pivotal in establishing Click Hotels Bengaluru as a premier destination for travelers. His focus on guest relations, combined with the hotel’s strategic location and high-quality amenities, ensures a stay experience that meets and exceeds the expectations of today’s discerning travelers.

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Sandeepjhambh

Director

25th August 2024

Nirmala Marketing: Pioneering Customized Amenities for the Hospitality Industry

In the competitive world of hospitality, where guest experience is paramount, the quality and variety of amenities offered can make all the difference. Leading the charge in this domain is Nirmala Marketing, a prominent manufacturer and supplier of premium housekeeping items and guest amenities. Established in 2008, Nirmala Marketing has carved out a niche for itself by providing products that meet the highest standards of quality and reliability.

A Commitment to Quality

At the heart of Nirmala Marketing's success is their unwavering commitment to quality. The company ensures that only the finest raw materials are used in their manufacturing process, which undergoes rigorous checks at every stage. This meticulous attention to detail has allowed them to consistently deliver flawless products that cater to the diverse needs of the hotel industry.

From guest room essentials like dental kits, shaving kits, and vanity kits to bathroom supplies including soap, shampoo, and moisturizers, Nirmala Marketing offers a comprehensive range of amenities designed to enhance the guest experience. Their product portfolio also extends to F&B supplies and disposables, as well as customized logo stationery and packaging solutions, allowing hotels to add a personal touch to their brand.

Leadership and Vision

The driving force behind Nirmala Marketing's remarkable growth is Mr. Sandeep Jhambh, the company's Director. With over 16 years of rich industry experience, Mr. Jhambh's business acumen and ethical practices have earned the company a prestigious reputation and a loyal clientele across the nation.

"From the very beginning, our mission has been to provide the hospitality industry with products that are not only of the highest quality but also tailored to meet the specific needs of our clients," says Mr. Jhambh. "Our success is a reflection of our commitment to this vision."

Expanding Horizons with Eco-Friendly Initiatives

Looking to the future, Nirmala Marketing is poised to introduce an exciting new collection of eco-friendly amenities. Recognizing the growing demand for sustainable products in the hospitality sector, the company aims to develop innovative solutions that combine environmental responsibility with top-tier quality.

"Our objective is to create a unique trend in the hospitality industry by offering eco-friendly amenities that are both functional and beautifully packaged to meet the discerning tastes of our clients," Mr. Jhambh explains.

A Partner You Can Trust

Nirmala Marketing's extensive range of products, coupled with their dedication to customer satisfaction, makes them a preferred partner for hotels seeking to elevate their guest experience. Whether it's providing customized guest room amenities or developing bespoke packaging solutions, the company is committed to exceeding expectations and setting new benchmarks in the industry.

For inquiries and further information, Nirmala Marketing can be contacted at:

Phone: 9352434532, 8764123970, 8949267504
Email: jhambh@rediffmail.com

As Nirmala Marketing continues to innovate and expand, their contribution to the hospitality industry remains invaluable, ensuring that guests across the country enjoy a memorable and luxurious stay.

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AKHIL AJI

11th August 2024

Paneer Tikka: A Flavorful Delight

Golden, smoky, and bursting with flavor—this Paneer Tikka is a true celebration of Indian spices and textures. The paneer is marinated in a rich blend of yogurt, cumin, coriander, and a hint of chili, then grilled to perfection. The result is tender cubes with a crispy exterior and a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth center. Paired with crunchy bell peppers and onions, it’s a vibrant and delicious symphony of flavors.

I’m Akhil Aji, a second-year student pursuing a BA in International Culinary Arts from ITM IHM, Nerul, Navi Mumbai.

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Manicklal Chakraborty

Sr Faculty

10th August 2024

Importance of Hindi language in the Indian hospitality industry

"Language is the road map of a culture. It tells you where its people come from and where they are going." "He who knows no foreign languages knows nothing of his own." "You can never understand one language until you understand at least two." The hospitality industry benefits significantly from effective language training, which improves workplace communication between frontline staff, managers, and customers. Given the industry's diversity, with employees from various backgrounds and cultures, language proficiency becomes crucial.

For instance, consider a French tourist visiting different states in India like Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, or Andhra Pradesh. Communication can become a challenge if they don't speak the local languages. Conversely, an Indian tourist in France can navigate the country more easily due to the widespread use of a single language, thus enhancing their experience and contributing to the local economy. Why Hindi? India’s linguistic diversity is undoubtedly strength, with each language holding its own significance.

However, language should not hinder progress; rather, it should be a tool for unity and development. Learning a common language from school, such as Hindi, can facilitate national integration and make it easier for international tourists to explore and enjoy India’s rich cultural diversity. Hindi, spoken by over 500 million people, is the most widely spoken language in India, predominantly in the northern regions. Promoting Hindi across the country can: Simplify communication nationwide Enhance national unity Promote tourism and cultural exchange Facilitate business and economic growth Hindi's potential stems from its status as an official language, its use in education, media, and government, and its wide reach across the country.

However, it's essential to acknowledge and respect the importance of other Indian languages, ensuring that promoting Hindi does not marginalize them. A balanced approach that celebrates linguistic diversity while promoting Hindi for national integration can help India achieve all-round development. The Role of Hindi in Hospitality and Tourism While it's ideal for tourists to communicate in the local language, it's often impractical. In the tourism and hospitality sectors, a common language like English or Hindi can serve as a bridge, facilitating communication across different states and regions. Encouraging hospitality professionals to learn basic phrases in international languages like French or German can further enhance the experience for foreign tourists.

Challenges in Certain States Unfortunately, in some states like Tamil Nadu, there is limited Hindi education and usage. This creates potential communication barriers for Hindi-speaking tourists and business visitors, leading to economic and social impacts, particularly on poorer communities who might miss out on opportunities due to language limitations. This situation exemplifies how language policies can have far-reaching consequences. It's also concerning that while elite schools, often run by political leaders or affluent individuals who oppose Hindi, teach it as a second language, government-run schools are restricted from doing so, allegedly due to language politics and self-interest.

Conclusion Recent surveys show that many European countries have started teaching Hindi in their schools. Hindi, one of India's official languages, is spoken by 52.83 crore people, accounting for 43.63% of the population. It is followed by Bengali and Marathi in second and third positions. In the United States, at least 33% of Indians speak Hindi, and nearly 17% speak Gujarati and Telugu. The Center for Immigration Studies (CIS) reports that the number of people speaking a foreign language has more than doubled since 1990 and almost tripled since 1980.

Written by Manicklal Chakraborty, Snr. Faculty, Office and Management Studies.

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