New Delhi — What happens when India’s top hospitality talent goes head-to-head on neutral turf in the heart of the capital? You get a culinary showdown so intense it could rival lunch hour at Khan Market. Last weekend, New Delhi played host to the IndiaSkills Hospitality Track–II competitions, and let’s just say, the ACs at Pragati Maidan worked overtime from the kitchen heat alone.
Inside Delhi’s Hospitality Hunger Games
IndiaSkills 2024 has been making waves across various trades, but the spotlight this time was firmly on the hospitality competitions under Track–II, which took place recently in New Delhi. Organised by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, the event was as high-pressure as hosting a shaadi at The Leela on short notice.
Candidates were tested across multiple modules—think culinary arts, bakery, housekeeping, and F&B service. But this wasn’t some basic towel-folding Olympics. In the culinary section, participants had to whip up complex dishes under strict time limits, using standardized ingredients and under evaluation by WorldSkills-certified experts. Remember your school cooking class? Now imagine that, but with Michelin-level stakes and five GoPros filming your every move.
Held at a specialized setup mimicking five-star hotel environments, the competition attracted candidates from every corner—yes, even from sleepy towns where hospitality is more homestay than Hyatt. The event aimed to identify and groom talent for the upcoming WorldSkills International competition, often dubbed the “Olympics of Skills.” Think of it as the IPL for people who wield spatulas instead of bats.
Why Your Next Buffet Might Taste Better
Here’s where it gets real for the rest of us. These seemingly high-level competitions could quietly transform your next dinner experience—be it at ITC Maurya’s Bukhara or that new “European fusion” café that just popped up behind Hauz Khas Market.
The idea is to create a pipeline of professionally skilled workers who don’t just provide service with a smile, but do it with international finesse. For Delhiites, this means the F&B scene could turn sharper, more inventive, and definitely more consistent. Your Uber driver might still cancel last minute, but at least your room service paneer tikka won’t disappoint.
Also, placements. These competitions often double up as talent showcases. Big hotels—from Aerocity’s glitzy corridors to boutique properties near Paharganj—are keeping an eye out for fresh, polished professionals. And if you’re a hospitality student at IHM Pusa or IIHM Greater Noida, this is your Olympics moment. The next time a recruiter comes to your campus, you’ll want to be the one who nailed custard under pressure in front of 20 judges.
From Tea Vendors to Trophy Winners: Delhi’s Track Record
Delhi’s been here before. IndiaSkills competitions have previously been held in Gurugram and Dwarka in past cycles, with a decent showing from hospitality hopefuls. Interestingly, many success stories don’t come from posh hotel schools but from humble beginnings—like a winner from Karol Bagh who started out in his parents’ tea stall before mastering five types of continental sauces.
This time, however, the stakes are a notch higher with the global WorldSkills competition around the corner. The performances at this Track–II event could decide who represents India on the world stage. Let’s just say, it’s no longer just about Delhi vs Mumbai in cricket—we’re talking India vs France in filet mignon finesse.
📍 Spot Check: The event was held near Pragati Maidan, just a few minutes’ walk from Supreme Court Metro Station (on the Blue Line). If you’re in the area, Dilli Haat is a good detour for post-event chaat and commentary. Also, the area saw a slight surge in cabs and delivery apps due to the nearby crowd, so plan accordingly.
The Final Word
This is a hard “YAY” from us. In a city that’s seen too many interns who don’t know how to carry a tray without shaking, initiatives like these can actually upgrade our standards. Plus, who doesn’t love watching a bunch of 20-somethings go full ‘MasterChef’ on a weekday?
Here’s the real kicker—what if this becomes a traveling annual event with public viewing zones next year? Picture this: Culinary coliseum in Janpath. We’re game.
Have something to say? Drop a comment below!
#IndiaSkills2024 #DelhiChefsAssemble #HospitalityWars #PragatiMaidanAction #GameOfSkills
About the Author
