With new hotel signings in remote locations, the hospitality sector is set to create thousands of jobs in India’s tier-2 and tier-3 cities this year. Leading hotel chains are investing in skilling and reverse migration initiatives, aiming to equip locals with hospitality skills while encouraging professionals to return to their hometowns.
Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) recently signed an MoU with the Goa government to establish India’s largest hospitality skilling center. Gaurav Pokhariyal, IHCL’s Executive VP for HR, emphasized the initiative’s role in boosting Goa’s tourism ecosystem and skilling the workforce in regions like Jamshedpur, Nagpur, and Kumbhalgarh.
Radisson Hotel Group has partnered with the Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) and The Job Plus to train over 260 youth in key hospitality roles, including front office, food and beverage services, and housekeeping. Nikhil Sharma, COO for South Asia, shared that Radisson’s expansion into smaller markets is projected to create 3,000 new jobs, enabling many professionals to build careers in their hometowns.
Hyatt India Consultancy has seen up to 31% of its new hires return to their hometowns, leveraging partnerships with CII and EHL Hospitality Business School to offer globally recognized skilling programs like the VET Swiss Professional Diploma. “Our growth strategy is rooted in empowering people and communities,” said Zane Dmello, Director, HR, India.
Better work-life balance and lower living costs are motivating professionals to relocate to smaller towns. Sanjay Bose, Executive VP for HR at ITC Hotels, noted that their expansion into tier-2 and tier-3 cities provides significant opportunities for reverse migration. ITC Hotels also collaborated with over 300 institutions last year, offering structured internship programs to more than 5,000 students.
Sarovar Hotels has observed senior professionals, including general managers and department heads, opting to return to their hometowns. The chain plans to hire 1,800–2,200 new employees this year as it expands to new destinations, said Mielle Batliwala, AVP, HR.
Several chains are utilizing CSR funds for skilling programs to address the rising demand for talent in remote locations. Divya Krishan, VP at The Job Plus, highlighted how brands like Radisson and Chalet Hotels are linking employability-focused skilling with social empowerment. The Job Plus has trained and deployed 1,800 individuals aged 18–24 in the last two years, creating a “grey-collared workforce” that aligns with industry needs.
As India’s hospitality sector grows in smaller towns, these initiatives are not only bridging the talent gap but also fostering economic development in underserved regions. By prioritizing local communities and reverse migration, hotel chains are redefining the workforce and creating sustainable growth opportunities across the country.
Source: ET
