The Nuts and Dry Fruit Council of India, NDFC(I), has launched a groundbreaking walnut plantation initiative in Chakrata, Uttarakhand. Aiming to bolster domestic nut production and reduce dependency on imports, the project introduces grafted walnut plants to India for the first time, with 300 saplings planted across three villages in the region.

This initiative marks the beginning of an ambitious three-year project designed to involve over 1,000 cultivators. Currently, more than 70 farmers are participating in the program, receiving comprehensive training on optimal plantation techniques, care, and maintenance of these high-yielding saplings during critical growth stages.

The saplings, sourced from Turkish horticultural company AGRONOM and imported by Kalason Nursery in India, promise higher yields and quality. This initiative sets the stage for India’s second MEWA (Middle East, Europe, West Africa, and Asia) event in February 2025, reinforcing efforts to popularize and expand nut cultivation in the country.

A Collaborative Effort for Growth

In partnership with the Walnuts and Other Nut Fruit Growers Association of India (WANGAI), NDFC(I) aims to position India as a significant producer and exporter of walnuts. This initiative is expected to expand to the Tuni region and include an additional 1,000 farmers, laying the groundwork for increased nut production and innovation.

Speaking on the initiative, Achin Aggarwal, Chair of the Committee for Agriculture and Farmers Connect at NDFC(I), shared:
“With this initiative, we hope to cater to the growing popularity and demand for walnuts. As India and the world move towards healthier lifestyles, we aim to expand the walnut production base. Beyond enhancing production, this initiative will support the regional economy, and in the coming years, we hope Chakrata becomes a hub for walnut exports. The introduction of grafted walnut plants should also drive innovation and research for even greater yields.”

Sustainability and Long-term Vision

The project emphasizes sustainability with plans to establish world-class nut plant nurseries in India. These nurseries will ensure farmers have access to high-quality grafted plants, fostering a robust local economy through increased walnut production and job creation.

About NDFC(I)

NDFC(I) represents the unified voice of the nuts, dry fruits, seeds, raisins, berries, and dates industry in India. Its mission is to empower and uplift every segment of this vibrant sector, from growers to distributors, through collaboration and innovation.

As the calendar turns to a new year, BK Café by Burger King India is serving more than just coffee—it’s serving a glimpse into the future. Introducing “Coffee Fortunes,” an innovative and interactive experience that marries ancient Turkish coffee-reading traditions with cutting-edge artificial intelligence. Guests at BK Café can now enjoy their favorite brew while discovering their personalized fortunes for 2025, making their New Year celebrations extra special.

Drawing inspiration from the ancient practice of tasseography, where coffee grounds or tea leaves reveal one’s destiny, BK Café is using AI to analyze coffee foam patterns. With just a few simple steps—stirring, sipping, and photographing their coffee—guests can upload the foam’s image to a dedicated microsite, http://bkcafecoffeefortunes.com/. The AI engine then interprets the patterns and unveils a bespoke fortune, adding a sprinkle of mystique and delight to their coffee moment.

From December 28, 2024, to January 3, 2025, “Coffee Fortunes” will be available across all BK Café outlets in India. Guests who share their fortunes on social media will receive a complimentary cup of Cold Coffee, ensuring their experience is both flavorful and fun. The activity not only offers an engaging New Year celebration but also turns a regular coffee break into a memorable, story-worthy event.

Kapil Grover, Chief Marketing Officer, Burger King India, shared his excitement about the campaign: “At BK Café, we believe every cup of coffee tells a story, and this New Year, we’re taking that to the next level with ‘Coffee Fortunes.’ This activity celebrates the magic of coffee while bringing people together to share their stories and moments of joy. It’s our way of kicking off the year by engaging with our guests in a positive and interactive way.”

Pravin Sutar, National Creative Director of Leo Burnett South Asia, elaborated on the creative concept: “As the new year approaches, everyone’s curious about what lies ahead. ‘BK Café Coffee Fortunes’ taps into that excitement in a way that’s never been seen before. By combining extensive data with innovative technology, we’ve transformed coffee into more than just a beverage—it’s now a fun, interactive, and personalized experience that creates a positive buzz around BK Café.”

“Coffee Fortunes” exemplifies Burger King’s commitment to redefining the coffee experience by combining tradition, technology, and a touch of playfulness. Whether your 2025 fortune predicts adventure, love, or success, BK Café ensures that your coffee moment is unforgettable. This initiative not only underscores Burger King’s dedication to innovative guest experiences but also positions BK Café as a brand that delivers both exceptional coffee and meaningful connections.

Guests are invited to visit BK Café, upload their coffee foam images to the microsite, and unlock their fortunes. To amplify the experience, those who share their fortunes on social media will receive a complimentary cup of coffee. It’s an irresistible way to ring in the New Year while celebrating with friends and family.

For more information, visit http://bkcafecoffeefortunes.com/.

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Renowned for redefining vegetarian street food with a global twist, Street Storyss proudly unveils its latest outlet in Bangalore, celebrating five years of culinary innovation. Co-founded by visionary food entrepreneur Akshay Luthria and acclaimed Chef Tarun Sibal, the brand has set a benchmark for creative and elevated vegetarian dining in the city.

The new outlet encapsulates the spirit of Street Storyss, offering a vibrant and sophisticated space where street food is reimagined with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and artistic presentation. The bistro-style interiors feature stunning aesthetics and a welcoming ambiance, designed to enhance the culinary experience.

Chef Tarun Sibal has curated an innovative menu inspired by the journey that started with a simple yet iconic plate of Morning Glory in Bangkok. Staying true to the brand’s ethos, the menu celebrates seasonal and local produce while delivering inventive, globally influenced flavors.

Signature dishes include the Ghee Bhaji Sando, a refined take on the beloved Pav Bhaji, and the Jammu Rajma Poke Bowl, which seamlessly fuses the comforting essence of Rajma Chawal with Asian-inspired elements. For dessert lovers, creations like the Salted Pistachio Caramel showcase the brand’s penchant for combining artistry with bold flavors.

The beverage menu adds a refreshing dimension to the dining experience. Highlights include the Promogerante Lemongrass and the Curry Leaf Mang Mausambi, ensuring an ideal pairing for every dish.

Reflecting on this milestone, Chef Sibal shares, “This menu is a homage to our beginnings and the unwavering support of our patrons. As we grow, we remain committed to pushing boundaries and celebrating the diversity of global vegetarian street food through innovative culinary artistry.”

Street Storyss continues to champion sustainability and seasonal adaptability by incorporating fresh, local ingredients into its menus. This commitment not only supports regional agriculture but also offers guests a dynamic and ever-evolving dining experience.

From its humble beginnings in Bangalore to becoming a culinary haven for food enthusiasts, Street Storyss has redefined vegetarian dining. The new outlet promises an elevated journey through the diverse world of street food while staying rooted in its creative philosophy.

Location: Forum South Mall, 3rd Floor, Next to PVR, Konanakunte Cross, Bangalore
Timings: 12:00 PM to 11:30 PM

Experience a gastronomic adventure like no other at the all-new Street Storyss!