Pride Hotels Group's D.R.E.A.M 2.0 Program Achieves 50% Female Representation

Pride Hotels Group announced the completion of its D.R.E.A.M Program 2.0, which has welcomed a new group of management trainees into this esteemed initiative. This year, the program achieved a remarkable milestone, with 50% of its management trainees being women, reinforcing the organization's commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The program commenced with an engaging three-day orientation at Pride Plaza Ahmedabad

"We are immensely proud of the success of the D.R.E.A.M Program 2.0, which not only reflects our commitment to nurturing exceptional talent but also highlights our dedication to diversity and inclusivity within the hospitality industry. By achieving a remarkable milestone of 50% women in our management trainee group, we are empowering the next generation of leaders to bring their unique perspectives and strengths to the forefront. This initiative is a vital step in shaping a more equitable future for our organization and the industry as a whole," said Atul Upadhyay, Executive Vice President, Pride Hotels Group.

The three-day orientation program, featured welcome sessions led by Shailendra Dharme, Head of Corporate Learning & Development, and Jayesh Wadher, Head of Corporate Talent & Culture. The event was graced by the presence of esteemed CEO Satyen Jain and Executive Vice President Atul Upadhyay, who shared valuable insights with the new trainees, referred to as "DREAMER’S."

Mr. Upadhyay emphasized the program's role in empowering aspiring managers with the essential knowledge and skills required for leadership in the dynamic hospitality sector. A highlight of the orientation was an inspiring session delivered by acclaimed travel storyteller and architect, Murli Menon, who shared valuable insights drawn from his extensive travel experiences.

The orientation included virtual greetings from corporate leaders, further underscoring Pride Hotels Group's dedication to nurturing talent within the hospitality industry. The enlightening sessions featured guest faculty from the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM), who introduced participants to innovative concepts aimed at enhancing guest experiences through modern technology and culinary arts trends. This segment was part of a collaborative skill development initiative between IIHM and Pride Hotels Group.

The D.R.E.A.M (Determine Refined Excellence for Aspiring Managers) Program is specifically designed to offer exceptional career opportunities to aspiring associates interested in the Management Trainee (MT) and Hospitality Operations Trainee (HOT) Program at Pride Hotels Group. The initiative aims to equip candidates with a comprehensive understanding of the theories and operational processes that are vital for the growth and development of the hospitality industry, preparing them to become future leaders. Upon successful completion of the program, candidates will have the opportunity to advance to Assistant Manager or Executive positions within the organization.

Pride Hotels Group remains steadfast in its commitment to cultivating talent and developing leadership within the hospitality sector. The D.R.E.A.M Program serves as a testament to this dedication, paving the way for a new generation of leaders in the industry.

Pride Hotels Group Partners with Rameshwaram Hotels to debut in Jharkhand

Pride Hotels Group is excited to announce a new collaboration with Promoters Rameshwaram Hotels, marking the signing of two new hotels in Jharkhand: Biznotel by Pride Deoghar and Biznotel by Pride Dumka. These are the first two Biznotel by Pride brand signups in the state, signaling a significant milestone in the expansion efforts.

Pride Hotels Group is thrilled to unveil the grand opening of Biznotel by Pride Deoghar, strategically located in the heart of Deoghar. This latest addition to our expanding portfolio offers an exquisite blend of comfort and traditional Indian hospitality, ensuring an unforgettable stay for every guest.

Positioned just 800 meters from the renowned Baba Baidyanath Temple, Biznotel by Pride Deoghar & surrounded by  within lofty hills and exotic forest, Biznotel by Pride Dumka provides unparalleled convenience for visitors to Deoghar’s spiritual heritage & Dumka's leisure surroundings. The 80-room hotel is easily accessible from the Airport and Railway Station, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking ease of access and serene accommodations.

Nestled amidst the tranquil surroundings of the city, Biznotel by Pride Deoghar boasts elegant rooms, exceptional service, and top-tier amenities, all designed to ensure a comfortable and warm stay. Whether on a spiritual pilgrimage or a leisurely retreat, Biznotel by Pride Deoghar guarantees a memorable experience, combining modern comforts with the rich cultural heritage of Deoghar.

"We are excited to bring Biznotel by Pride to Deoghar, a city known for its spiritual significance and vibrant culture. It is strategically positioned to cater to both spiritual tourists and leisure travelers," said EVP Mr. Atul Upadhyay, Pride Hotels Group. "Biznotel by Pride Deoghar is a testament to our dedication to expanding our footprint in key locations across India. Our guests can expect exceptional hospitality that blends traditional Indian warmth with modern amenities, ensuring a warm stay experience."

Binay Thakur, AVP of Pride Hotels Group, added: "Our location near the Baba Baidyanath Temple and accessible transport links makes us the perfect choice for guests seeking comfort, convenience, and a deep connection with Deoghar’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage."

Mr. SP Jain, Chairman and Managing Director, Pride Hotels Limited has shared his expectations from the Union Budget 2023 for the Hospitality Sector.

 1. Extend Timeline for Export Obligation under EPCG Scheme:-

The EPCG scheme allows the import of capital goods including spares at zero duty subject to an export obligation of six times of duty saved on capital goods imported under the scheme, to be fulfilled in six years. Foreign Exchange earnings of the hotel industry have been impacted due to the unprecedented pandemic and restrictions on travel by many countries. This is leading to non-fulfillment of export obligations for pre-covid capital goods imports and consequent penalties on the hospitality industry. In view of the volatile economic environment created due to the Covid Pandemic, the timeline for meeting export obligations should be extended by at least 6 (Six) years for all the EPCG licenses which have an EO period falling between February 2020 onwards.

2. Continuation of EPCG Scheme, service export benefits and grant export status

to the hospitality industry:-

 The EPCG Scheme allows the import of capital goods for pre-production, production, and post-production at zero customs duty and subject to fulfillment of specific export obligations equivalent to 6 times of duties and taxes saved on capital goods to be fulfilled in 6 years from the date of issue of authorization. This scheme has helped the hospitality sector in India immensely to emerge as a strong player in the global tourism market, by procuring equipment as per international standards and quality. However, the capability of the domestic market to cater to the specific requirements of the hospitality sector is in its nascent stage in comparison to the requirements of the hospitality sector, where the clientele is largely from the global market which is highly competitive. Therefore, it is imperative to continue the EPCG Scheme to enable the hospitality sector to remain competitive in a global market scenario, for some more years.

 Granting Export Status to the hospitality Industry with tax incentives and benefits would enable the sector to be more competitive and help the sector to jumpstart its growth to the next orbit.

3. Waiver of secondary condition with regard to average Foreign Exchange

Earnings under the EPCG scheme retrospectively from FY 2007-08 onwards From 2004-2007, the Hospitality industry enjoyed its golden years in terms of revenue performance while earning substantial foreign exchange but ever since then its revival to that past glory looks very remote. It was during this time that the service industry was exempted from maintaining Annual Average Performance conditions vide Para 5.7.6 of Chapter 5 of Exim Policy 2002-07. However, in the year 2007-08, DGFT in the new Exim Policy introduced an additional condition which not only meant that over and above the primary condition, the industry will have to earn 6-8 times the FEE within the respective block period and also saddled with a secondary condition of maintaining a 3 years average past performance continuously over & above the specific EO and the average has to be maintained for the entire block of 8/6 years till the redemption of license.

 In this regard, our two requests are given below: -

a) Grant Relaxation in average export obligation by adjusting the preceding 3 years' annual average performance for all years commencing from the financial year 2008/09.

b) Allow offsetting any shortfall in the average EO in any year by using the excess export done above export obligation for the fulfillment of an EPCG license.

6. Uniform GST @ 12 % on all Hotels

G.S.T. rates for hospitality in India are one of the highest in the world. This makes both domestic and inbound tourism in India very expensive. India is facing tough competition from neighboring destinations especially due to the higher rate of GST in India and other factors which make the total tourism package expensive to India.

The system of GST shifting to different slabs in the same hotel on different dates – under/over 7500 room rate – creates compliance issues. It also spills over to F & B. Therefore, we suggest introducing one flat GST slab @ 12 % at all times to all hotels in the country.

7. Treat the payments made by foreigners in rupees in hotels as foreign exchange earned for the purpose of the EPCG scheme

Foreigners coming to India and staying and spending in hotels should be deemed as foreign exchange earned by hotels for the purpose of the EPCG Scheme. It should be treated at par with merchandise exports of hotels & resorts to promote exports of hospitality services. To enable investments into developing more global markets, it is requested to declare foreign exchange & deemed foreign exchange earnings from hotels & tourism as export earnings.

Additionally, it is roughly estimated that each foreign tourist moves across Indian states, stay at hotels & resorts, and go through other experiences, and spends their foreign currency or their converted foreign exchange. All such services of hotels & resorts which accept payment from such foreign tourists should be deemed as exports too.