India's Best Colleges 2026

For the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) Pusa, 2026 is shaping up as a year of quiet but significant transformation, marked less by reinvention than by deep upgrades in infrastructure and learning systems. Hostel renovation is on the cards, and laboratories across departments are to get upgraded equipment. A major highlight is the development of a new state-of-the-art training restaurant, where students will be able to experience real-time service operations.

Smart classrooms and a strengthened ERP (enterprise resource planning)-based learning system will further streamline academics and make student engagement more personalised and organised. Academically, 2026 will see a stronger push towards interdisciplinary and industry-aligned learning rather than new degree programmes. Students will continue to have access to Harvard-based publications, SWAYAM platform courses and foreign language training, broadening their global readiness.

A notable shift is the institute’s focus on entrepreneurship and cross-functional skills through the Entrepreneurship Promotion Incubation Centre (EPIC). Importantly, it is expected to encourage business thinking across hospitality domains, from operations and service design to sustainability-driven ventures and digital hospitality solutions.

Technology is becoming a central thread across teaching and training. AI will be increasingly embedded in learning exercises, from interview simulations to revenue forecasting, menu planning and customer experience design. Students can also expect structured exposure to data-driven decision-making tools, including SPSS (statistical package for the social sciences) training for research and analytical projects. Placement preparation is also becoming more tech-aware, with AI-based interview simulations, aptitude testing, structured public speaking and role-play modules forming part of pre-placement training. Internships have already been upgraded under the JNU-aligned system, with a 17-week structured training period covering all core departments.

The institute is also increasing podcasts and social media platforms to make campus life more visible, engaging and accessible. In essence, 2026 at IHM Pusa will be less about adding new labels and more about upgrading how hospitality education is delivered, making it more practical, digital and closely tied to the evolving expectations of the global service industry.​