IHCL, Tata STRIVE, and ANIIDCO Launch Skilling Initiative for Hospitality Professionals

Port Blair, India Jul 16, 2026 ALN: On this World Youth Skills Day, the Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced a partnership with Tata Community Initiatives Trust (TCIT) – Tata STRIVE, and the Integrated Development Corporation Limited (ANIIDCO). This collaboration aims to strengthen workforce development in the hospitality sector, which has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and is now on a path to recovery.

The hospitality industry in India is a critical sector that contributes substantially to the nation’s economy, providing millions of jobs and supporting ancillary industries such as travel, food production, and retail. As the country witnesses a resurgence in tourism, there is an urgent need for skilled professionals who can meet the evolving demands of the industry. This partnership is a proactive step towards addressing this need by enhancing the skill set of the workforce.

Shri K. Mohanchandran, Senior Vice President – Operations (East and North East) at IHCL, emphasized the importance of structured vocational training, stating, ‘As India’s hospitality sector maintains its strong growth trajectory, structured, high-quality vocational training has become a national priority. Guided by Paathya, this partnership with Tata STRIVE and ANIIDCO will enhance employability, service excellence, and livelihood opportunities for island youth and existing hospitality professionals while strengthening the tourism ecosystem of the region.’

The initiative will kick off with a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) program, which is designed to certify and upskill 250 hospitality personnel currently employed across hotels, restaurants, resorts, and related establishments. The program will be implemented in Sri Vijaya Puram, Swaraj Dweep, and Shaheed Dweep, covering essential modules such as Front Office Management, Food & Beverage Service, Housekeeping, Kitchen Operations, Multi-Cuisine Cooking, Bakery, and Guest House Operations. This comprehensive training approach aims to equip participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring they are well-prepared to excel in their roles.

Tata STRIVE will spearhead the training delivery, assessment, and certification processes, while IHCL will leverage its extensive industry expertise and operational presence to provide knowledge support. The collaboration aims to create a robust framework for skill development that not only meets the immediate needs of the hospitality sector but also anticipates future trends and challenges.

Shri Ameya Vanjari, COO of Tata STRIVE, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, saying, “The IHCL Tata STRIVE collaboration has been a leader in tourism and hospitality skilling. We are delighted to bring these skilling opportunities to the youth of the region through this partnership with ANIIDCO. At Tata STRIVE, we are committed to creating pathways to sustainable livelihoods through industry-aligned skills development. This collaboration enhances professional competencies and strengthens employment and entrepreneurship opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sector.”

Ms. Chanchal Yadav, Managing Director of ANIIDCO, highlighted the significance of tourism in the region's economy, stating, “Tourism is a key contributor to the economy of the and , and building a skilled workforce is critical to sustaining its growth and preparing for the future. This partnership will support professional development across the and enrich the long-term growth of the Union Territory’s tourism sector.” The and , known for their pristine beaches and rich biodiversity, have been increasingly recognized as a tourist destination, making the need for skilled hospitality professionals even more pressing.

Under its ESG+ framework, Paathya, IHCL is committed to skilling 100,000 youth by 2030. The company has expanded its skilling network to over 80 centers across India and has trained more than 49,000 youth since 2020, supporting employability in both established and emerging tourism destinations. This ambitious goal reflects IHCL's commitment to social responsibility and sustainable development, recognizing that a well-trained workforce is essential for the long-term success of the hospitality industry.

About The Indian Hotels Company Limited: The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries encompass a group of brands and businesses that offer a blend of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service. This includes the iconic Taj brand, recognized as the World’s Strongest Hotel Brand 2025 and India’s Strongest Brand 2026 according to Brand Finance. The company operates a portfolio of 645 hotels, with 263 in the pipeline across four continents, 15 countries, and over 300 locations. IHCL is listed on the BSE and NSE and is recognized as India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalization. The company’s dedication to excellence and innovation has positioned it as a leader in the industry, and partnerships like this one with Tata STRIVE and ANIIDCO further solidify its role in shaping the future of hospitality in India.

The implications of this initiative extend beyond immediate job creation. By investing in the skills of the youth, IHCL, Tata STRIVE, and ANIIDCO are fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development that can help elevate the overall standards of service in the hospitality sector. As the industry rebounds from the challenges posed by the pandemic, having a well-trained workforce will be crucial in meeting the expectations of both domestic and international travelers.

Moreover, this initiative aligns with broader national goals of enhancing vocational training and skill development across various sectors, as outlined in government policies and initiatives aimed at boosting employment and economic growth. The collaboration also serves as a model for public-private partnerships in skill development, demonstrating how industry leaders can work together to create impactful programs that benefit local communities.

As the program unfolds, it will be essential to monitor its progress and outcomes, ensuring that the training provided translates into tangible employment opportunities for participants. Success in this initiative could pave the way for similar programs in other regions, contributing to a more skilled and adaptable workforce that can thrive in an ever-evolving economic landscape.