IFBA announces upcoming report to combat misinformation and offer evidence-based insights on palm oil, in partnership with NIFTEM-K and IHM-Delhi In a powerful demonstration of cross-sector collaboration, the Ind Food and Beverage Association (IFBA) marked World Food Day 2025 with a high-impact event focused on promoting food literacy and combating misinformation. Hosted in partnership with the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM-Kundli) and the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering and Nutrition (IHM-Delhi), the event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, food scientists, and academia to address the urgent need for science-backed food education in an era dominated by conflicting narratives and digital misinformation. Sh. Avinash Joshi, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, said, “In today’s fast-paced world, processed foods offer unmatched convenience be it ready-to-eat meals, frozen snacks, or canned foods, helping individuals manage their time and nutritional needs effectively. However, despite the sector’s vital contribution to food safety and accessibility, public perception is often influenced by misinformation and media-driven myths”. Keeping in view of this, the Ministry has recently come out with a publication of FAQs on Processed Foods with special focus on Ultra Processed Foods (UPFs)/ High Fat, Salt and Sugar (HFSS) Foods to help disseminate scientific based knowledge and evidence on the subject.  A central highlight was the announcement of an upcoming IFBA report aimed at debunking persistent myths surrounding palm oil, one of the most misunderstood ingredients in the global food supply chain. The report will present evidence-based insights into palm oil’s role in nutrition, sustainability, and food manufacturing, with the goal of supporting more informed consumer choices and policy decisions. Commenting on the occasion, Sh. Satyen Kumar Panda, ED (Regulatory Compliance) and Advisor …

On the occasion of World Food Day, the Ind Food and Beverage Association (IFBA), in partnership with the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM-Kundli) and the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering and Nutrition (IHM-Delhi), is launching a unique initiative that will bring together stakeholders from across the food ecosystem, including industry leaders, regulators, researchers, and academia. With rising concerns around food safety, nutrition security, and the environmental impact of food systems, the global food and beverage (F&B) industry is at a pivotal juncture. As consumer awareness grows and regulatory frameworks evolve, there is a pressing need for integrated efforts that bridge policy, innovation, and public education. Recognising this, key institutions across industry, academia, and regulators are coming together to facilitate informed dialogue and collaborative action. The event seeks to debunk pervasive myths surrounding food choices, often shaped by misinformation rather than rigorous science, specifically addressing critical concerns around palm oil, processed and packaged foods, A1/A2 ghee varieties, and protein supplements, empowering consumers with clear, science-backed information to make informed decisions. Talking about this initiative, Dr. H.S. Oberoi, Director, NIFTEM-K, Mr. Deepak Jolly, Chairperson at IFBA, Mr. Kamal Kant Pant, Principal & Secretary, IHM Delhi, in a joint statement said, “We are pleased to come together to celebrate World Food Day, not only by creating a right platform for discussion and awareness around food safety and nutrition but also by launching an exciting ‘Healthy Snacking’ contest, supported by the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations.” Adding a youth-centric dimension, IHM-Delhi and NIFTEM-K will participate in a ‘Healthy Snacking’ contest, showcasing inventive recipes that deliver sensory appeal and nutritional excellence. Judged by culinary luminaries Mr. Sudhir Sibal, (Ambassador to World Chefs Without Borders), …

Taiwan is rapidly establishing itself as a premier global culinary destination, drawing attention for its unique fusion of traditional flavours, modern innovation, and international influences. A key reflection of this culinary evolution is the growing presence of the MICHELIN Guide Taiwan, whose latest edition highlights the breadth and depth of Taiwan’s gastronomic landscape. The 2025 edition of the MICHELIN Guide Taiwan, now in its eighth year, showcases an impressive 419 establishments across the Starred, Bib Gourmand, and Selected categories, a significant increase from 343 in 2024. The Guide now spans seven cities, with New Taipei City (36), Hsinchu County (21), and Hsinchu City (22) joining Taipei (157), Taichung (63), Tainan (61), and Kaohsiung (59) in the prestigious selection. This expansion underscores both Taiwan’s deep-rooted food heritage and its continued rise as a sought-after travel destination. At the heart of this growth is Taiwan’s culinary DNA, a rich tradition dating back thousands of years, shaped by indigenous influences, global exchanges, and an open, multicultural society. Today, Taiwan’s food culture is a dynamic mix of authentic local fare, global cuisines, and innovative fusion that caters to every palate. This year’s selection includes 53 MICHELIN Starred restaurants, with 8 newly awarded One MICHELIN Stars and 3 promoted to Two MICHELIN Stars. One more establishment joins the ranks of those recognized with a MICHELIN Green Star, bringing the total to 7 restaurants celebrated for their sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Highlighting Taiwan’s potential as a food-forward tourism destination, Paul Shih, Director – Singapore Office, Taiwan Tourism Administration, said, “With a food identity deeply rooted in warm hospitality and tradition, Taiwan is fast emerging as one of the culinary capitals of the world. The latest MICHELIN …

Madhya Pradesh to Emerge as a World-Class Tourism Destination – Minister Shri Lodhi Organized by Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board from 11th to 13th October in Bhopal Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, Madhya Pradesh is set to establish itself as a world-class tourism destination with the organization of the Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart (MPTM) 2025 from 11th to 13th October 2025 at the Kushabhau Thakre International Convention Centre, Bhopal. The event will bring together domestic and international buyers, sellers, travel agents, film representatives, and key stakeholders from across the tourism sector on a single platform. Organized by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, this three-day event will host over 700 participants, including more than 80 foreign tour operators from 27 countries, 150 domestic tour operators, 355 sellers, film representatives, and media professionals. It will be India’s largest state-level travel mart, positioning Madhya Pradesh on the global map as the “Heart of Incredible India.” Minister of State for Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments, Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, stated that in collaboration with FICCI this will be one of the largest state-level travel marts in the country. It will connect the state’s hoteliers, travel and tour operators, homestay owners, and other tourism stakeholders with prominent domestic and international buyers, including major hoteliers and tour operators. This initiative will not only increase tourist inflow into Madhya Pradesh but will also open new avenues of economic growth in the tourism sector and create local employment opportunities. The event will provide a platform for investment, partnerships, and collaborations in tourism, hospitality, film, wedding, and MICE sectors. Over 3,000 B2B meetings will be held during the mart, making it …

Travel and Food Network (TFN), a global digital media and entertainment brand headquartered in India, today announced the launch of its AI Trip Planner, the country’s first AI-driven holiday planning platform by any Indian publisher. The platform, live on www.tfninternational.com, combines advanced artificial intelligence with TFN’s editorial expertise to generate hyper-personalized itineraries, and  closing the loop by providing expert assistance to complete the booking of the personalized itinerary, through a curated network of travel partners. The launch aligns with World Tourism Day’s call for a Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism. Marking a pivotal step where AI becomes the traveler’s compass, making journeys smarter, more personal, and future-ready. For years, TFN has inspired a discerning audience through curated travel and food stories, guides, and destination insights. Its collaborations with domestic and international tourism boards have positioned it as a trusted voice in the travel ecosystem. Speaking on the launch, Sanjay Dhar, Founder & CEO of Travel and Food Network, said: “The AI Trip Planner represents a natural evolution for TFN; from storytelling to solutioning. By harnessing machine learning and dynamic content modeling, we can deliver itineraries that reflect not just where travelers want to go, but how they want to experience it. It’s a fusion of editorial curation, data-driven intelligence, and seamless commerce, designed to elevate how Indian travelers plan and book holidays.” Ritika Basu, Co-Founder & Chief Revenue Officer, Travel and Food Network, added: “What sets this apart is its precision and scalability. The AI dynamically adapts recommendations based on user profiles, seasonal trends, and real-time availability, creating journeys as unique as the traveler themselves. For advertisers, tourism boards, and partners, it opens new pathways for targeted …

Moscow is set to become the epicenter of the global MICE industry as it hosts the Meet Global MICE Congress 2025 on December 17-18, 2025, at the World Trade Center. For the third consecutive year, this significant event will bring together experts, top-notch speakers, MICE planners from Russia, BRICS and Global South Countries to network, collaborate, exchange ideas and discuss the latest  trends. The Congress programm is meticulously designed, featuring over 15 dedicated business sessions, with the main theme ‘Unity through Open Diversity: New Opportunities for Global Growth’. On Day One focus will be on enhancing cooperation between government entities and business, exploring intergovernmental projects that can drive the MICE industry forward. Sessions on Day Two will cover a wide array of topics, including global trends, analytics, destination marketing, incentive travel, business strategies, and the latest in cutting-edge technologies. For those looking to stay ahead of industry trends and broaden their professional horizons, attendance at this congress is highly recommended. The Meet Global MICE Congress 2025 serves as a distinctive platform for strengthening brand positioning and engaging with the high qualified professional audience from diverse regions, including  India, China, Southeast Asia, Africa, Latin America, the CIS, and, of course, Russia. With over 3200 pre-scheduled appointments taking place in the expo zone, attendees will have the chance to meet exhibitors who will represent the best MICE destinations from around the globe. The Congress helps to generate valuable business leads for the upcoming year and build new successful partnerships. The Meet Global MICE 2025 congress is a key event for everyone involved in the MICE industry. With its focus on collaboration, innovation, and growth, this congress will not only foster professional development but also contribute to the overall development of the MICE sector …

Discover Kissimmee’s best fall festivals, holiday attractions, and family-friendly events this season! Kissimmee is brimming with seasonal fun, exciting experiences and unforgettable events this fall and winter! From thrilling Halloween adventures and immersive holiday celebrations to new attractions, interactive activities and live entertainment, there’s something for every visitor to enjoy in the Vacation Home Capital of the World®. New Attractions in Kissimmee NOW OPEN: Arcade Time Opens Orlando’s First and Only 24-Hour Arcade & Restaurant Arcade Time Entertainment, the Florida-based arcade and restaurant concept, opened its newest location at 6464 International Drive, bringing 24-hour entertainment and dining to Orlando. The venue is a large entertainment hub with over 300 games suitable for all ages, from the latest tech-driven attractions to retro favourites. The restaurant delivers an elevated take on comfort classics and signature entrées most guests wouldn’t expect from an arcade. Paired with two full-liquor bars and a playful cocktail program, the menu ensures there’s something for everyone. NOW OPEN: Westgate Resorts Unveils New Mystery Fun House Arcade in Kissimmee Westgate Resorts has officially opened the Mystery Fun House Arcade Experience at its flagship Kissimmee properties, Westgate Vacation Villas Resort and Westgate Town Center Resort. The nearly 9,000-square-foot arcade and food hall reimagines Orlando’s original Mystery Fun House with a mix of retro games, modern simulators, bowling lanes, themed dining and interactive attractions for all ages. Powered by Chuck E. Cheese and featuring multiple entertainment zones, the new experience is the latest addition to Westgate’s resort offerings, which also include renovated suites, new dining venues and enhanced retail spaces. Fall Attractions & Family-Friendly Halloween Events SeaWorld® Orlando’s Howl-O-Scream Returns with More Fear, More Frights and a New Face of Terror SeaWorld dares guests to face …

The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), New Delhi, successfully hosted Sewa Parv today to celebrate the 75th birth anniversary of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Hon’ble Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. On this occasion, Dr. Sanjeev Kishor Goutam, Director General of NGMA, welcomed the Hon’ble Chief Minister with an angavastra and a floral bouquet. In his welcome address, he also highlighted and appreciated the numerous new initiatives being undertaken under her leadership in Delhi. Thousands of artists, youth participants, and cultural representatives participated in the event to realise the vision of a developed India through creative expression. More than 15,000 artists, youth, and cultural contributors showcased their art at the event. The distinguished presence of Padma Shri awardees Shri Shyam Sunder Sharma, Shri Vasudeo Kamath, and spiritual speaker Sushri Chitralekha Ji added grandeur to the celebration. The event featured a Painting Workshop and Competition on the theme “Sewa Parv: Vision of Viksit Bharat.” Professional artists, art college professors and students, school teachers and children, and emerging voices in the art community came together to depict the spirit of service and the vision of a developed India on canvas. Inspired by the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, the celebration brought together communities, institutions, and artists in a collective expression of service, cultural pride, and creativity. After the event, Hon’ble Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta said: “I congratulate you all on today’s competition, Viksit Bharat ke Rang, Kala ke Sang, where you showcased the image of a New Bharat through painting and art”. She also extended her congratulations to Ms. Lily Pandeya, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Culture; …

Marriott Executive Apartments, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, has expanded its footprint in India with the launch of Marriott Executive Apartments Bengaluru UB City . Thoughtfully designed for business professionals, expatriates, and discerning long-stay travellers, the property offers a true home-away-from-home experience blending comfort, space, and convenience. Perfectly situated in Bengaluru’s vibrant Central Business District, the 190 modern serviced apartments are fully equipped featuring kitchenettes and tailored services enhancing productivity, offering a sense of belonging with seamless access to the city’s leading corporate hubs, retail destinations, and Kempegowda International Airport – making it an ideal destination to explore and connect with the local surroundings. Bengaluru, also known as the “Silicon Valley of India,” is where innovation meets tradition – a vibrant city that pulses with entrepreneurial energy and cultural richness. As a magnet for multinational corporations, ambitious start-ups, and a diverse, cosmopolitan workforce, it stands as a key destination for business professionals and expatriates seeking purpose-driven, long-term stays. Beyond its dynamic corporate landscape, Bengaluru is also steeped in nature and history with tree-lined boulevards, sprawling gardens like Lal Bagh and Cubbon Park, and architectural history in Bangalore Palace and Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace. The city’s mild climate and thriving cultural scene rich in music, art, and diverse cuisine, offers a nurturing backdrop that invites residents to find balance, connection, and inspiration throughout their stay. “India’s corporate landscape is evolving rapidly, especially in innovation-driven cities like Bengaluru. This transformation is creating a clear demand for a new category of accommodations, ones that go beyond traditional hospitality,” said Kiran Andicot,  Senior Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International Inc “Business travellers today seek consistency, spaciousness, …

MBD Group is pleased to announce the promotion of Mr. Parmeet Singh Nayar to Executive Vice President – Hospitality Operations, recognizing his visionary leadership and significant contributions. With over 35 years of experience across global brands such as Shangri-La, Hilton, Carlson Rezidor, ITC Hotels, The Taj Group, and The Imperial New Delhi, Mr. Nayar is widely respected for his strategic foresight, operational excellence, and people-first approach. In his six-year tenure with MBD, he has successfully repositioned Radisson Blu MBD Hotels, Noida and Ludhiana among India’s leading luxury addresses, earning numerous prestigious accolades for both properties and their culinary brands. He has also been personally recognized with multiple industry honours for his outstanding contribution to hospitality. In his elevated role, Mr. Nayar will spearhead the strategic growth and operational excellence of MBD Hospitality, overseeing current properties and upcoming ventures, further strengthening the Group’s leadership in luxury and lifestyle hospitality.