Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has joined hands with SETU AAYOG, Government of Uttarakhand, to establish a hospitality skill-training centre in Nainital. This initiative, under IHCL’s ESG+ framework Paathya, aims to empower the region’s youth with industry-focused training.
Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President of IHCL, stated, “Uttarakhand holds immense tourism potential. This centre will foster inclusive growth and bolster India’s travel and tourism economy.”
The collaboration involves SETU Aayog, Tata STRIVE, Kumaun University, Uttarakhand Skill Development Society, and the Department of Higher Education. Tata STRIVE will act as the implementation partner, while Kumaun University will provide infrastructure. Over three years, the centre aims to train 500 youth in areas such as Food & Beverage Service, Front Office, and Kitchen, alongside internships to bridge the education-to-employment gap.
Shri Raj Shekhar Joshi, Vice Chairman of SETU Aayog, remarked, “This partnership aligns industry and academia, fostering job creation and regional growth.”
IHCL’s Paathya initiative already supports 53 skill centres across India, targeting to train 1,00,000 youth by 2030. Ameya Vanjari, COO, Tata STRIVE, added, “This centre will open career pathways and drive local development.”
