BS RAWAT
NEW DELHI: Even as the beauty and wellness industry is seeing explosive growth in India, there is a huge need for skilled manpower in the industry to elevate its growth trajectory to the next level, say experts.

The experts were speaking at an ASSOCHAM International Conference-cum-Awards ceremony on Beauty & Wellness in New Delhi.

Dr Blossom Kochhar, chairperson, Blossom Kochhar group of companies, said, “There is a need to infuse a feel-good factor for youth in terms of choosing a career as a wellness expert, beautician, hairdresser and others to attract skilled manpower in this industry.”

Mr Samir Srivastav, chief executive officer, Jean-Claude Biguine Salon & Spa, said that while the beauty and wellness industry figures among the fastest-growing sectors and remains recession-proof, the dignity of labour and dearth of skilled people are some of the biggest challenges being faced, more so owing the perceived stigma attached to the profession.

“There is an urgent need for all the stakeholders, be it the industry experts, professionals, regulatory authorities and others, to work in tandem and bring vibrancy into the beauty and wellness sector,” said Mr Srivastav.

Mr Sandeep Ahuja, director, VLCC Health Care Limited, said that while the beauty and wellness industry in India is booming, the skilled professionals like beauticians and wellness experts need to be paid well to attract more people to develop a career in the industry.

“The expectations of the customer have risen and when the demand for quality increases, we must build an ecosystem which is conducive to such standards,” said Mr Ahuja. “We want trained manpower to join us but are we paying them enough to feel part of an ecosystem that is appreciative?”

Mr Sandeep Marwah, chancellor, AAFT University of Media and Arts, said that it is the glamour and ardour which has made beauty and wellness industry as one of the most sought-after offbeat career choices for youth.