KFC India Rolls Out Sign Language Training for All Employees

In a move towards greater inclusivity in the hospitality industry, KFC India has introduced a Sign Language training program for all 17,000+ employees, including those in corporate offices. This initiative, launched to mark the International Day of Sign Languages, aims to create a more accessible environment across its 1,200+ restaurants in over 240 cities. The program is part of KFC India’s Kshamata initiative, which focuses on bridging gender and ability gaps.

The training, designed in consultation with a Sign Language expert, consists of online modules that introduce Indian Sign Language (ISL). The first module covers ISL alphabets, while the following sessions focus on common phrases and greetings essential for everyday communication. By 2026, KFC India aims to double the number of speech and hearing-impaired (SHI) employees through this program.

In addition, as part of the #SpeakSign campaign, KFC has launched India’s first interactive Sign Language kiosks at Select CityWalk, New Delhi, and Ambience Mall, Gurugram. These kiosks allow visitors to learn how to order food items across various cuisines using ISL, including popular KFC dishes like Hot and Crispy and Zinger. 

Moksh Chopra, General Manager of KFC India and Partner Countries, said, "We are proud to announce that 100 percent of our teams will be trained in basic Indian Sign Language, making our restaurants more inclusive. We're also taking this movement beyond our organization into the wider hospitality industry."

KFC’s franchise partners, Devyani International Limited (DIL) and Sapphire Foods India Limited (SFIL), have been instrumental in implementing the Kshamata initiative. Pradeep Das, CEO of DIL, emphasized the importance of bridging the ability gap, stating, "The rollout of Sign Language training will help ensure that we’re fostering an environment where speech and hearing-impaired individuals can interact confidently."

Deepak Taluja, President and CEO of SFIL, added, "The training is a significant step toward fostering inclusive environments. We at SFIL are committed to feeding people’s potential with KFC Kshamata."

The interactive kiosks will be available at Select CityWalk and Ambience Mall until September 21. Additionally, on September 23, International Day of Sign Language, consumers can visit any of the 54 special KFCs operated by speech and hearing-impaired employees to learn ISL through special menus and tutorial videos.