Gurugram, India: Diageo India (United Spirits Ltd.), one of the country’s leading alco-bev companies, has partnered with TSL Foundation to train 200 young women under its ‘Learning for Life’ programme. The training centre at Bhondsi, Gurgaon was inaugurated in the presence of Shri Gaurav Singh, Additional CEO, Haryana State CSR Trust, Government of Haryana, along with members of Diageo India and the TSL Foundation team. The employability-based training programme is being implemented in partnership with the Government of Haryana to create awareness to uplift and empower young women. This initiative is aligned with Diageo India’s commitment to promoting inclusion and diversity, a key pillar of Diageo’s Society 2030: Spirit of Progress goals.

The two-month training program includes theory classes, on-job training and simulations in the front office set up at the training center, activity-based learning, projects and periodic assessments, guest lectures and interview preparation sessions for successful placements. Students will be awarded National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) or equivalent government certificate upon completion of the program and meeting the assessment criteria.

Shri Gaurav Singh, Additional CEO, Haryana State CSR Trust, Government of Haryana said, “This Skill Development Centre will be a boon for our young women, providing essential skills to thrive in big institutions. Many aspiring professionals do not have access to fundamental training, and this initiative by Diageo India and TSL Foundation bridges that gap. We plan to expand this centre, providing invaluable training and placement support from industry leaders like Ramada and Radisson, to help candidates secure positions in top organisations.

In the spirit of ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’, we are extending the message to ‘Beti ko Samriddh Banao’. Your dedication to this journey will unlock immense career opportunities. Thank you to Diageo India and TSL Foundation for launching this vital skill development centre for the youth of Haryana.”

Navdeep Singh Mehram, VP- CSR & Sustainability, Diageo India said: “Our partnership with TSL Foundation is driven by a shared goal of creating a diverse workforce in the hospitality sector. Together, we aim to empower 200 young women with the skills to become self-reliant and thereby contribute to the economic development of the country. This initiative underscores our commitment to expanding the reach of our ‘Learning for Life’ programme and strengthening the livelihood opportunities of individuals from underrepresented communities.”

Apoorva Sharma, Managing Director, TSL Foundation, said: “We are delighted to partner with Diageo India, whose commitment to inclusive development is exemplary. In partnership with the Government of Haryana, we will be educating and creating awareness on upskilling young women and supporting a thriving hospitality sector. Upon completion of the programme, we will provide support for internships and employment opportunities.”

Over the years, Diageo has initiated several initiatives in the NCR region, including water, sanitation and hygiene projects, disability education programs and promoting responsible drinking.