IHCL Establishes 73rd Skilling Centre at Kumaon University, Nainital
IHCL expands the Hospitality Skilling Network with the 73rd Centre at Kumaon University, Nainital, in collaboration with Tata STRIVE and Government of Uttarakhand.
By SOH Edit Team
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the launch of its 73rd Hospitality Skilling Centre at Kumaon University in Nainital, Uttarakhand. The initiative is a multi-stakeholder collaboration between IHCL, Tata STRIVE, Setu Aayog, and the Government of Uttarakhand. The centre was inaugurated by Shri Rajshekhar Joshi, Vice Chairman, Setu Aayog.
Leadership Perspective
Commenting on the launch, Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President – Human Resources, IHCL, stated: “At IHCL, we believe that true hospitality begins with empowering communities. We are pleased to announce the 73rd skilling centre at Kumaon University in Nainital, a significant milestone in our journey to uplift and enable youth across the country. Under our ESG+ framework of Paathya, IHCL is committed to skill 1,00,000 individuals by 2030. This initiative stands as one of the largest hospitality skilling programs in India, with a sustained impact across 21 states and 32 aspirational districts, reinforcing our dedication to inclusive growth.”
Program Highlights
The new centre is designed to train over 500 youth over the next three years, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the hospitality industry while unlocking local employment opportunities. Training programs will cover key hospitality functions including:
- Food and Beverage Service
- Food Production
- Front Office Operations
Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President – Human Resources, IHCL.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
This multi-partner initiative integrates diverse contributions:
- Government of Uttarakhand and Kumaon University will provide funding, facilities, and infrastructure support.
- Tata STRIVE will serve as the implementation partner.
- Setu Aayog will manage program coordination.
- IHCL will act as the knowledge partner, providing domain expertise and curriculum guidance.
The centre will place strong emphasis on employment placement within local hotels, fostering regional economic growth through skill-based development.
Under its industry-leading ESG+ framework, Paathya, IHCL continues to expand its nationwide skilling network. With 73 centres operational across 21 states, including New Delhi, Bihar, Assam, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Karnataka, IHCL remains committed to building inclusive and sustainable communities by empowering deserving youth and their families through employability and education.