Punjab Minister Navjot Singh SidhuFriday invited chefs from across the world to open a culinary institute in the state to give a fillip to its hotel and tourism sector.
He assured that the state government would extend all possible assistance for the purpose apart from providing land.
Sidhu extended the invitation after inaugurating the 'World Food Festival' and 'Traditional Rasoi Sammelan' here.
At present, the young generation is migrating to foreign shores and individuals are spending over Rs 30 lakh each to move abroad. This leads not only to money drain but also brain drain, the tourism and cultural affairs minister said.
If a culinary institute comes up at either Amritsar or Mohali, it would pave the way for skill education of the youth, thereby not only generating jobs but also bringing foreign students to India.
On the occasion, Sidhu also announced that a tender worth Rs 10.76 crore was issued for the purpose of building an 'International Food Street' which would commence operation by March 31, 2020.
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The street would have 16 food courts, two huge restaurants, a cafeteria, five art and craft shops, an exhibition hall and a conference room, he said.
Appreciating the World Culture Culinary Heritage Committee for selecting Amritsar as the venue for the food festival, Sidhu said in the current scenario, food was not just limited to taste but has become a massive industry providing employment to scores of people.
He further said that the last installment of Rs 15 crore for the renovation and beautification of the Gobindgarh Fort had been released as he highlighted that such buildings were the symbol of great cultural heritage of Punjab and must be maintained.