NITHM workshop explores stronger India-France cooperation in tourism and hospitality
Hyderabad: India-France tourism cooperation received fresh focus at a special workshop organised by the National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management (NITHM), Hyderabad.
The programme explored ways to strengthen academic, professional and institutional links between India and France in tourism and hospitality.
Mark Lamy, Consul General of France in Bengaluru and a representative of the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, attended as the chief guest and inaugurated the programme.
Vani Prasad, Special Chief Secretary of Telangana’s YAC&C Department and Chairperson of NITHM, presided over the event.
She said strong ties between countries develop not only through diplomacy but also through people-to-people contacts, cultural understanding and shared experiences.
Moreover, she highlighted food, gastronomy, culture, tourism and hospitality as important areas that bring people and countries closer.
Vani Prasad said cultural exchanges allow people to learn about new ideas and perspectives. At the same time, they provide an opportunity to showcase India’s traditions and heritage.
She urged NITHM students and faculty to participate actively in international cultural programmes. She also encouraged them to interact with the visiting dignitary and learn about French culture and society.
NITHM Director Professor V. Venkata Ramana said international cooperation was essential to prepare students for the rapidly growing tourism and hospitality sectors.
He called for joint research projects with leading French industries and educational institutions. In addition, he stressed the need to promote French language training among students.
India-France tourism cooperation to strengthen cultural and academic links
Mark Lamy said France was working to deepen economic, educational, cultural and people-to-people relations with India.
He described Hyderabad as an important centre for French investment and cooperation in aerospace, pharmaceuticals, hospitality and technology.
Lamy noted that global French companies such as Sanofi, Airbus, Safran and Accor had a strong presence in India.
He identified French lifestyle, gastronomy, hospitality, cuisine, pastry and tourism as important areas for cultural exchange.
Meanwhile, India’s growing economy and expanding middle class were creating opportunities for students and young professionals in hospitality, tourism and culinary arts.
Lamy also highlighted the role of Alliance Française in promoting French language, culture, cuisine and cultural activities in Hyderabad.
He said France appreciated Telangana’s efforts to promote its tourism, cinema, theatre and cultural heritage at the international level.
Furthermore, France was ready to support internships, academic exchanges, cultural programmes and educational opportunities for Indian students and faculty, Lamy said.
He encouraged students to pursue international experiences, internships, higher education and professional development opportunities. Learning different languages, he added, could improve their prospects for international careers.
Lamy said India-France friendship extended beyond government relations. Education, culture, business, people-to-people contacts and shared experiences also strengthened the partnership.
India-France tourism cooperation expands opportunities for NITHM students
The workshop provided a platform to exchange ideas on tourism education, hospitality management, skill development, cultural tourism and sustainable tourism.
It also explored new avenues for India-France tourism cooperation. As a result, NITHM students and faculty gained exposure to the French tourism system and international hospitality practices.
The programme also offered insights into French culture and lifestyle. In addition, participants learned about possible academic and professional collaborations.
NITHM is an autonomous institution established jointly by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and the Telangana Government. It functions under the Telangana Government’s YAT&C Department.
The institute focuses on education, training, research and industry engagement in tourism and hospitality. Its main objective is to develop skilled professionals for the changing global tourism and hospitality sectors.