
IHCL Collaborates with Indian Army and REACHA to Launch Skill Centre in Uri on World Youth Skills Day 2025, ETTravelWorld
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In a continued push for inclusive growth and skill development, Indian Hotels Company ( IHCL ) has partnered with REACHA (Research & Extension Association for Conservation Horticulture and Agro-Forestry) and the Indian Army to establish a new skill development centre in Uri, Jammu & Kashmir . The announcement coincides with World Youth Skills Day 2025.The initiative targets the empowerment of local youth through vocational training and entrepreneurship support . The Uri centre will offer specialised courses in bakery and fashion design (weaving), enabling participants to access sustainable livelihood opportunities within and beyond their communities.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.'He added that the Uri centre represents a purpose-driven approach, contributing to community resilience and advancing a sustainable hospitality ecosystem, particularly in regions with emerging tourism potential.Brigadier Manish Sehgal (VSM), Commander 12 Infantry Brigade, Dagger Division, 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 of REACHA, commented, '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 Uri centre follows previous efforts in Kupwara and Buniyar (Baramulla district). Together, these centres aim to train around 550 youth across Jammu & Kashmir by 2026.

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