India’s alcobev and hospitality sectors are set to gain a dedicated platform for responsible alcohol education with the launch of ABVsmart Academy, co-founded by industry professionals Sumedh K. Singh and Sonal C. Holland, MW. Announced during Diwali, the initiative aims to establish India’s first national programme dedicated to Responsible Alcohol Service and Consumption (RASC), focusing on educating professionals and consumers across the alcohol ecosystem.
ABVsmart Academy has been established with the vision of promoting a safer, more informed and responsible drinking culture in India. Through accessible, industry-relevant education and certification programmes, the academy plans to equip professionals involved in serving and selling alcohol with the knowledge and skills required to encourage responsible practices. It also aims to improve consumer awareness and strengthen standards across the hospitality and alcoholic beverages industries.
The initiative brings together the complementary experience of its co-founders, Sumedh K. Singh and Sonal C. Holland, MW, who collectively bring more than 50 years of industry experience. Their partnership is built around a shared belief that as India’s hospitality and alcobev sectors expand and evolve, the professional knowledge, service standards and understanding of responsible alcohol consumption must develop alongside them.
Suresh Menon Joins Sazerac-John Distilleries to Lead Corporate Advocacy and Regulatory Affairs in India
Alia Bhatt Attends Launch of Johnnie Walker’s First India-Inspired Blue Label Festive BlendThe academy intends to address the need for structured education on responsible alcohol service and consumption at a national level. Its programmes are expected to focus on empowering industry professionals, improving awareness among consumers and encouraging informed choices. By bringing education and certification into the wider alcohol ecosystem, ABVsmart Academy aims to contribute to more responsible industry practices.
Announcing the venture, Sumedh K. Singh described the launch as a new beginning driven by education, awareness and a commitment to meaningful industry change. He highlighted Diwali’s symbolism of knowledge overcoming ignorance as an appropriate occasion to introduce an initiative focused on informed decision-making and responsible behaviour.
While further details about its programmes and future plans are expected to be announced, ABVsmart Academy has outlined an ambitious mission: to make responsible alcohol education more accessible and relevant across India. The launch marks a new step towards building professional capabilities and promoting responsible practices as the country’s alcobev and hospitality industries continue to grow.
About the Author
