Visa and The Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) have unveiled a transformative three-year initiative aimed at upskilling 20,000 Indian youths in tourism-related skills. This partnership, valued at up to USD 1 million, marks a significant investment in enhancing service quality and boosting the tourism sector across 10 Indian states.
Visa and THSC Collaboration: A Game-Changer for Indian Tourism
In a groundbreaking move, Visa and THSC are set to revolutionise the tourism industry in India by investing up to USD 1 million over the next three years. This collaboration aims to train 20,000 young Indians in essential tourism skills, addressing a critical need in one of the country’s most dynamic sectors.
Key Points of the Partnership
- Investment Amount: Up to USD 1 million.
- Duration: Three years.
- Target: 20,000 Indian youths.
- Focus: Tourism-related skills across 10 states.
The initiative will focus on equipping individuals with skills required for various roles in tourism, including tour guides, customer service executives, naturalists, and paragliding tandem pilots. This comprehensive approach is designed to significantly improve service standards and job opportunities within the sector.
States Benefiting from the Initiative
The programme will be rolled out across 10 Indian states, including:
- Assam
- Gujarat
- Himachal Pradesh
- West Bengal
These states have been selected due to their unique tourism potential and the opportunity for substantial growth in service quality and job creation.
Impact on Economic Growth and Job Creation
Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Chaudhary has underscored the initiative’s potential to stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities. By investing in skill development, the programme aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the tourism sector, thus enhancing the overall visitor experience and supporting local economies.
Visa’s Kelly Mahon Tullier highlighted the importance of improving employment prospects and the quality of tourism services. According to Tullier, “Our partnership with THSC reflects Visa’s commitment to supporting India’s tourism sector and creating meaningful employment opportunities for young people.”
Roles and Skills Focused On
The initiative targets several key roles within the tourism industry, including:
- Tour Guides: Offering immersive and informative experiences to tourists.
- Customer Service Executives: Enhancing the overall customer experience through excellent service.
- Naturalists: Providing valuable insights into local flora and fauna.
- Paragliding Tandem Pilots: Ensuring safe and enjoyable adventure experiences.
By targeting these roles, the programme aims to address gaps in the current workforce and meet the growing demands of the tourism industry.
Visa’s Commitment to Skill Development
Visa’s collaboration with THSC builds on its previous efforts in the tourism sector, demonstrating a continued commitment to skill development and economic growth. This partnership aligns with Visa’s broader goal of supporting sustainable development and creating opportunities for young people in emerging markets.
THSC’s Role in the Initiative
The Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC), operating under the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, plays a crucial role in implementing this initiative. THSC’s expertise in skill development and its network within the tourism sector will ensure that the training programme is comprehensive and effective.
What This Means for the Future
This partnership represents a significant step towards enhancing the quality of tourism services in India. By upskilling 20,000 youths, Visa and THSC are not only addressing immediate needs but also contributing to the long-term growth of the tourism industry.
The programme’s success will likely serve as a model for similar initiatives in other sectors and regions, demonstrating the power of public-private partnerships in driving economic and social progress.
Additional Resources
For further information on Visa’s initiatives and THSC’s role in the tourism sector, check out these resources:
