In a significant development, the Food Craft Institute (FCI), Jammu, is poised for transformation into an Institute of Hotel Management, catering to the escalating demand for skilled manpower in the region’s hospitality industry. The announcement was made during the 18th Governing Body meeting of the Food Craft Institution, Jammu, chaired by Commissioner Secretary, Skill Development Department (SDD), Saurabh Bhagat.
During the meeting, it was revealed that the proposal for the institute’s upgrade has been submitted to the Union Ministry of Tourism for approval. Commissioner Secretary Saurabh Bhagat commended the institute’s initiatives, including collaboration with J&K Police for inmate training and efforts in conducting various Skill Development Programmes in the hospitality sector.
The meeting approved the acquisition of a bus for the institute, the installation of rooftop panels, and the creation of hostel facilities within the campus. The Commissioner Secretary expressed appreciation for the institute’s engagement with the industry, such as the tie-up with J&K Police and the organization of Skill Development Programmes.
Plans were unveiled for a mega millet festival to showcase students’ culinary skills, inviting industry leaders and professionals. Additionally, FCI Jammu has published a booklet of millet recipes. Commissioner Secretary Saurabh Bhagat urged the institute to explore collaboration opportunities with industry leaders for industrial visits, executive interactions, and long-term tie-ups to keep students abreast of the latest industrial trends.
Rakesh Wazir, President of the Hotel & Lothedges Association Katra, lauded the administration’s decision to upgrade FCI, recognizing the increasing demand for skilled manpower in the hotel industry around Katra. He highlighted the presence of major hotel chains in the area and expressed optimism about the proposal’s positive impact on meeting the industry’s workforce needs.