India–Nepal Culinary Pact Marks Historic Milestone in Chef Education
In a first-of-its-kind collaboration, the Indian Culinary Forum (ICF), New Delhi and the International Institute of Gastronomy (IIG), Nepal have signed a landmark MoU to advance cross-border cooperation in culinary education and professional training. The alliance marks the beginning of an exclusive partnership, with ICF – India’s premier association of chefs – choosing IIG as its sole institutional partner in Nepal.
The partnership aims to give students and faculty unparalleled international exposure through competitions, festivals, guest lectures, masterclasses, faculty exchanges, and joint research. It also builds a direct bridge to Indian hospitality suppliers and employers, opening new pathways for internships, employability, and cross-cultural culinary innovation.
Chef Vivek Saggar, General Secretary, ICF, said, “This MoU is more than an agreement – it’s a bridge between two rich culinary cultures. Together, we aim to empower young chefs, while showcasing India and Nepal’s gastronomic traditions on a global platform.”
Sharon Adhikari, CEO of IIG Nepal, added, “At IIG, our mission is to create globally competitive professionals. This partnership with ICF ensures our students not only gain advanced skills but also industry recognition across South Asia and beyond.”