Pune agents get structured training

The TAAP has launched a free certification programme to empower members. The objective is tensure that even the smallest agencies can function in an organised manner, in an attempt to bring some structure to an industry that has earned a reputation for being fragmented and disorganised.

Hazel Jain

In a move aimed at empowering the travel trade at the grassroots level, the Travel Agents Association of Pune (TAAP) has launched a free certification course titled ‘Professional Tour Operator Certification Programme’ to help members operate with the structure and systems of a corporate organisation. This initiative is being offered without any external funding and is fully developed and delivered by TAAP’s in-house team of experts.

Sharing details, Nilesh Bhansali, Chairman, TAAP, said, “This course goes beyond theoretical learning. It is a practical, hands-on training programme covering vital areas, such as legal compliance, communication skills, CRM systems, office operations, banking protocols, data management and organisational structure. Our goal is to help even the smallest travel agencies become system-driven and future-ready.” The programme will be run and managed in the guidance of Hemant Pai, a senior member who has designed the programme.

While many associations offer knowledge-based sessions, what sets TAAP’s initiative apart is its commitment to practical support and real-time implementation. For example, one of the most critical topics covered is legal documentation — an area often neglected by small travel agents due to high costs. “Hiring a legal firm for contracts or operational documentation can cost thousands of rupees, which most small agents cannot afford. Understanding this gap, TAAP has proactively created and distributed 16 legally vetted drafts to all members — ranging from client contracts to staff-related agreements. The programme is specially curated for TAAP members only. In case someone is not our member but still wants to do this programme, they can become a member and complete it,” he adds.

TAAP’s documentation framework offers much-needed protection and standardisation. This initiative reflects TAAP’s commitment to uplifting the regional travel trade by promoting operational excellence, risk mitigation and professional growth for all its members. “We are not just launching a programme; we are walking the journey with our members to ensure they evolve from traditional set-ups to professionally managed enterprises,” Bhansali emphasises.