On the occasion of World Youth Skills Day, Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality firm, in collaboration with REACHA (Research & Extension Association for Conservation Horticulture and Agro-Forestry) and the Indian Army, announced the launch of a new skill development centre in Uri, Jammu & Kashmir. 

The initiative aims to empower local youth with employable skills and entrepreneurial potential through two dedicated courses: Bakery and Fashion Designing (Weaving). The project is part of IHCL’s broader ESG+ framework, Paathya, under which the company has pledged to skill 1,00,000 youth by 2030. 

Commenting on the initiative, Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice President – Human Resources, IHCL, said, “On World Youth Skills Day, IHCL reaffirms its commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable future through skill development. Guided by our ESG+ framework, Paathya, we aim to skill 1,00,000 youth by 2030, empowering individuals with capabilities that support both employment and entrepreneurship. The skill centre in Uri reflects this purpose-led approach. By investing in human capital, especially in regions with emerging tourism potential, we are contributing to resilient communities and a more sustainable hospitality ecosystem.”  

Brigadier Manish Sehgal (VSM), Commander 12 Infantry Brigade, Dagger Division, Indian Army, Uri, stated, “Working with youth and community is our commitment to nurture development in the region. The skill centre by IHCL and REACHA is a collaborative effort to uplift local communities and provide the youth with tools for a brighter future.” 

Nikhil Pant, Chairman and CEO, REACHA, added, “Our partnership with IHCL and the Indian Army continues to bring meaningful change to the lives of young people in Jammu & Kashmir. The centre builds on our shared vision of inclusive development through skill-building and community engagement.” 

The new centre follows successful hospitality training centres launched earlier by IHCL and REACHA in Kupwara and Buniyar (Baramulla district). With the addition of the Uri facility, the programme now targets training over 550 youth across Jammu & Kashmir by 2026.