Blue Ocean hosts IHRC’s India debut in Delhi, uniting 500+ HR leaders and announcing ‘Education for All’ and India expansion.
India took a decisive step onto the global human capital stage as Blue Ocean Corporation hosted the India debut of the International Human Resource Conference (IHRC) in New Delhi on 24 February 2026, signalling the country’s growing influence in shaping the future of global workforce development.
Held in strategic partnership with the HR Certification Institute (HRCI), the conference brought together over 500 senior HR leaders, global certification authorities, corporate decision-makers, and policymakers, making it one of the largest international HR gatherings hosted in India to date.
India’s Rising Role in the Global Talent Economy
Delivering the keynote address, Amy Dufrane, CEO, HRCI, underscored India’s pivotal role in the next phase of global workforce transformation. Reflecting on her interactions with Indian industry leaders and institutions, she described India’s talent ecosystem as dynamic, ambitious, and globally influential.
“India is not just participating in the global talent economy; it is helping define it,” she said, highlighting the country’s scale, growth momentum, and commitment to professional excellence.
Adding a high-profile dimension to the event, former Indian cricket captain and Blue Ocean board member Sourav Ganguly shared a special video message, welcoming delegates and reinforcing the importance of empowering people and building resilient teams in an era of disruptive innovation.
Distinguished Participation from Policy and Industry
The conference was attended by several eminent leaders, including Aman Puri, former Consul General of India in Dubai, as guest of honour. Other distinguished speakers included NITI Aayog representative Pushpinder S. Puniha, Chairperson of the Consultative Group on Tax Policy; AICTE COO Chandra Shekhar Budha; and John Ellis, COO of Blue Ocean Corporation, UK.
‘Education for All’ Mission Expanded
A major highlight of IHRC Delhi was Blue Ocean Corporation’s announcement to expand its “Education for All” mission, aimed at democratising access to globally benchmarked professional certifications and structured skill development programmes across India.
Sathya Menon, Chairman & Managing Director of Blue Ocean Corporation, said India’s demographic advantage must be matched with accessible, certified, and internationally aligned skills. He confirmed that the expanded mission will strengthen scholarship programmes nationwide, ensuring financial constraints do not limit professional aspirations.
In addition, Blue Ocean announced the launch of Internshub, a non-profit industry exposure platform designed to connect aspiring professionals with structured internship opportunities across key sectors, bridging the gap between certification and real-world experience.
Nationwide Expansion Roadmap Unveiled
Blue Ocean Corporation also revealed an ambitious India expansion plan, targeting key metropolitan centres and emerging growth cities. Vice Chairman Abdul Azeez described the expansion as a long-term commitment to India’s workforce transformation and its potential to lead the global talent economy.
Global Legacy, Local Impact
IHRC Delhi builds on Blue Ocean’s successful conference editions across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UK, Egypt, and India, with further global expansion planned this year. The event concluded with a convocation ceremony for globally certified professionals and the prestigious IHRC Awards, recognising excellence in HR leadership and innovation.
Headquartered in London, Blue Ocean Corporation brings over 28 years of excellence, a global alumni base of 500,000+ professionals, 2,500+ corporate partners, and 30+ international awards. The successful hosting of IHRC Delhi reinforces the organisation’s role as a global catalyst for professional excellence while advancing India’s human capital ambitions.
Source: PR
