Inauguration of VISA-THSC RPL initiative to upskill hospitality workforce

On November 19, 2024, Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, inaugurated the VISA-THSC Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Project in Bharatpur, Rajasthan. This initiative aims to recognise, certify, and upskill over 20,000 individuals in India's tourism and hospitality sectors over three years.

In his inaugural address, Jayant Chaudhary, Minister, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, underscored the profound impact of this project, stating, “Through the RPL initiative, we are not merely certifying skills; we are acknowledging and validating the hard work, expertise, and experience of our people. This project is a powerful step toward recognising and empowering the skilled workforce in Bharatpur and Rajasthan, especially in tourism and hospitality—sectors integral to India’s growth and cultural heritage. By certifying these skills, we are laying a strong foundation for economic upliftment and sustained job creation.”

The first year targets the certification of 7,000 individuals in various roles, including Tour Guides and Customer Service Executives, leveraging Bharatpur’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage site to promote local engagement and recognition.

Rajan Bahadur, CEO of THSC, shared his vision for the VISA-THSC RPL Project, stating, “Project aligns closely with THSC’s mission to bridge skill gaps in the tourism and hospitality sectors by providing individuals with industry-recognised certifications. This initiative will uplift livelihoods in Bharatpur and beyond, enhancing service quality across the industry. By raising service standards, we strengthen India’s position as a preferred global tourist destination and create a more competitive, resilient workforce.”

The event was also attended by Subhash Garg, MLA Bharatpur (RLD), and Deepak Bhagchandani, representative of Krishna Charitable Trust, the Training Partner for this initiative, reflecting the local support and collaborative spirit driving the RPL Project’s success in Bharatpur.