Visa, a global leader in digital payments, has partnered with Skill India to launch an initiative aimed at upskilling 20,000 Indian youth for careers in the tourism industry. This collaboration is part of a three-year agreement between Visa and the Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
Focus on Tourism Service Experience
The partnership is designed to improve the overall service experience for tourists visiting India by training youth in key roles within the tourism industry. The training will focus on essential positions such as tour guides, customer service executives, naturalists, and paragliding tandem pilots. The initiative will target youth across 10 Indian states, including Assam, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, and West Bengal.
This partnership builds on Visa’s ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism. By providing these skills, the program aims to make India a more attractive destination for tourists, contributing to the growth of the country’s tourism sector.
India’s Tourism Sector
Visa has been actively involved in strengthening India’s tourism landscape by leveraging its expertise in data and analytics. The company has played a key role in increasing inbound tourism by providing valuable insights to the Ministry of Tourism. These insights have been used to promote India’s diverse destinations on the global stage, making the country a more appealing destination for international travelers.
In a statement, Kelly Mahon Tullier, Vice Chair, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer at Visa, said, “By empowering the youth of the country with skills to thrive in the tourism industry, we aim not only to elevate their employment prospects but also to improve the overall experience for tourists visiting India.”
Step Towards Global Tourism
The partnership was officially formalized in the presence of Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Minister of State for Education, Government of India. The Minister emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “This partnership with Visa is a pivotal step towards realizing and unlocking that potential, equipping our youth with skills needed to thrive in the tourism sector and make India a premier global tourism destination.”
The program is valued at up to $1 million and represents a significant investment in the future of India’s tourism industry. By equipping young people with the skills needed to excel in tourism-related roles, this initiative will not only enhance their employment opportunities but also contribute to the overall development of the tourism sector in India.
Through this collaboration, Visa and Skill India are taking significant steps to boost the skills of young people in India’s tourism industry. This initiative is expected to have a lasting impact on the quality of services offered to tourists, helping to position India as a leading global destination. The program reflects a shared commitment to developing the country’s tourism sector and providing meaningful opportunities for India’s youth.
