Dr. Suresh Itapu Elected as Chairman of Soy Food Promotion & Welfare Association (SFPWA), Outlines Bold Initiatives for Industry Growth

Dr. Suresh Itapu Elected as Chairman of Soy Food Promotion & Welfare Association (SFPWA), Outlines Bold Initiatives for Industry Growth

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 15, 2024

The Soy Food Promotion and Welfare Association (SFPWA) has announced the election of Dr. Suresh Itapu as the new Chairman during its Annual General Meeting (AGM). This significant leadership change comes as SFPWA, representing over 3,000 small, medium, and large-scale soybean food processing units across India, prepares to tackle both ongoing challenges and new opportunities in the industry.

The newly elected leadership team for the next two years includes Mr. Girish Matlani, Founder Chairman of SFPWA and Managing Director of Sonic Biochem Extractions Ltd., and Mr. Praneet Mutha, Director of Vippy Industries Ltd., as patrons. Joining Dr. Itapu in this leadership are Dr. Ratan Sharma as Secretary and Mr. Jatin Girdhar from Savour India Pvt. Ltd. as Treasurer. Mr. Raj Kapoor has been appointed as the National Convener, with an executive team including Mr. Sarat Kumar from Riddhi Seedhi Marketing, Mr. Nishith Patel, Mr. Ravi S from R.K Soya, Mr. Swapnil Gandhi from Vippy Soya, and Mr. Girish Laad from Sonic Biochem. Special Invitees include Mr. Subbaro Bulusu from Bliss Foods and a representative from Fytomax, with Mr. Sumit Agarwal serving as Ex-Officio Member.

In his acceptance speech, Dr. Itapu outlined a forward-thinking vision for SFPWA. "The soy industry in India has experienced remarkable growth, transforming from a niche market into one of the country’s major agricultural sectors. With a predominantly vegetarian population, soybeans have become an essential and affordable source of protein," he remarked.

The election of Dr. Itapu is a strategic move, given his extensive experience and expertise. Holding a Ph.D. in Food Science and Technology, Dr. Itapu has worked globally, including at Purdue University, USA, and as Global Technical Director for ASA-International Marketing. He has played a crucial role in promoting soy foods across Asia, with efforts that have significantly increased soy consumption in India.

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In his new role, Dr. Itapu has ambitious plans to lead the SFPWA in addressing both immediate and long-term industry needs. Among his top priorities is enhancing collaboration among members, organizing webinars, and launching a "soy conclave" to discuss pressing industry topics. These initiatives will focus on marketing strategies, cost management, and improving the overall quality of soy products. Additionally, Dr. Itapu envisions launching a dedicated e-commerce platform exclusively for SFPWA members, which will boost visibility and sales of soy products.

Dr. Itapu also underscored the importance of sustainability in the future of the soy industry. He intends to foster research and development to help members adopt eco-friendly practices, enhancing both the quality of soy products and their environmental impact. "The future of the soy food industry is bright," he said, "and we must focus on innovation and sustainability to ensure long-term success."

Secretary Dr. Ratan Sharma expressed confidence in Dr. Itapu’s leadership, stating, "His experience will be instrumental in promoting soy food products and addressing the challenges our industry faces. We are excited to work together to further the growth of the sector."

Dr. Itapu emphasized the critical role that SFPWA will continue to play in advocating for the interests of soy food manufacturers. As the voice of the soy industry in India, SFPWA will maintain close engagement with policymakers to ensure favorable regulations, trade opportunities, and industry growth. Dr. Itapu concluded, "Our strength lies in our unity. By working together, we can navigate the challenges ahead and ensure a prosperous future for the soy food industry."

Under his leadership, SFPWA is poised to embark on a transformative journey, with a renewed focus on innovation, sustainability, and industry collaboration.


NoBa Opens in Bengaluru's Kalyan Nagar with a Cocktail-First Dining Experience

NoBa Opens in Bengaluru's Kalyan Nagar with a Cocktail-First Dining Experience

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 26, 2026

NoBa has officially opened its doors in Kalyan Nagar, Bengaluru, bringing a fresh cocktail-led dining experience to North Bangalore. Designed as a destination where food, beverages and hospitality come together, the 120-seater venue offers guests a vibrant yet relaxed setting to explore thoughtfully crafted flavours.

At the centre of NoBa's concept is its cocktail programme, which has been curated by industry veteran Bala, who brings more than 19 years of experience in the beverage industry. The bar menu focuses on creativity, technique and storytelling, with every cocktail carefully developed to deliver a memorable drinking experience.

Using house-made syrups, infusions and unique flavour combinations, the team has created a range of original cocktails that balance sophistication with accessibility. Rather than being an addition to the dining experience, cocktails form the core of NoBa's identity, encouraging guests to discover new flavours while enjoying a welcoming atmosphere.

The food menu has been designed to complement the beverage programme, featuring globally inspired dishes that naturally pair with the cocktails. The close collaboration between the kitchen and bar ensures a seamless experience where both elements work together to enhance the guest journey.

The restaurant's interiors draw inspiration from modern Mediterranean design, featuring high ceilings, natural light, earthy tones and contemporary details. The space effortlessly transforms from a relaxed dining destination during the day to an energetic social venue in the evening, centred around its vibrant bar experience.

While positioned as a premium offering, NoBa has been created with an inclusive approach. The venue aims to provide a comfortable environment where guests can enjoy innovative food and drinks, meaningful conversations and genuine hospitality.

With its focus on exceptional cocktails, quality cuisine and a thoughtfully designed setting, NoBa marks a new addition to Bengaluru's growing dining and nightlife landscape, offering a destination where guests can connect, explore and enjoy memorable experiences.

  • Venue: NoBa, 5th Floor, 714, HRBR Layout 1st Block, HRBR Layout, Kalyan Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560043
  • Timings: 12 Noon to 12 AM


Katana Introduces Baiu Menu to Celebrate Bengaluru’s Monsoon Season

Katana Introduces Baiu Menu to Celebrate Bengaluru’s Monsoon Season

By Hariharan U

Published on June 26, 2026

Katana has introduced its special Baiu menu, a seasonal culinary experience inspired by Japan's traditional plum rain season and designed to complement Bengaluru's monsoon months.

Available from 1st July onwards, the curated menu brings together comforting Japanese flavours, warm bowls, crispy bites, and signature beverages crafted for cosy rainy-day dining. The concept draws inspiration from Baiu, the rainy season in Japan, offering guests an experience that reflects the warmth and comfort associated with the period.

Among the highlights are dishes such as Crispy Enoki, Teba No Yaki, spicy and creamy chicken wings, and Salmon Tartar served on potato cakes. Each dish has been thoughtfully selected to suit the cooler weather while showcasing Katana's contemporary approach to Japanese cuisine.

A standout feature of the menu is the Quick Ramen, a customizable ramen experience that allows diners to select their preferred broth and protein combination, creating a personalised bowl tailored to individual tastes.

For sushi enthusiasts, Katana is offering a premium 20-piece Assorted Sushi Platter featuring salmon sashimi, gunkan maki, sake maki, spicy tuna uramaki, salmon nigiri, and tuna nigiri. The platter brings together a variety of textures and flavours, making it ideal for sharing.

Guests looking for classic Japanese-inspired appetisers can also enjoy favourites such as Prawn Gyoza, Beef Gyoza, and Prawn Corn Fritters, adding a mix of comforting and indulgent options to the seasonal offering.

To complement the food menu, Katana has introduced a selection of specialty sake-based cocktails. The Tiramisu No Yoru combines sake with fresh cream and homemade tiramisu syrup, while the Katana Counsel blends sake, vermouth, and merlot for a richer flavour profile.

Another signature creation, Pearl Blossom, features sake, guava juice, mint, homemade strawberry syrup, and soda, delivering a refreshing balance suited to Bengaluru's monsoon evenings.

With the launch of Baiu, Katana aims to create a seasonal dining experience that combines Japanese culinary traditions with contemporary flavours, offering guests a destination for comforting food, handcrafted cocktails, and memorable monsoon gatherings.


Encalm Launches Encalm Eats, Debuts IndiSip Café at Delhi Airport

Encalm Launches Encalm Eats, Debuts IndiSip Café at Delhi Airport

By Hariharan U

Published on June 25, 2026

Encalm has announced the launch of Encalm Eats, a dedicated food and beverage vertical that marks the company's entry into the creation and management of hospitality-led dining concepts. The new venture aims to develop distinctive culinary brands while expanding Encalm's integrated hospitality ecosystem across airports and other high-footfall destinations.

As its first in-house brand concept, Encalm Eats has introduced IndiSip Café at Delhi Airport. Designed around the idea of bringing India's flavours to travellers one sip at a time, the café celebrates the country's rich beverage heritage while offering a contemporary café experience.

The launch represents a natural extension of Encalm's hospitality portfolio, which already spans airport lounges, meet-and-assist services, wellness offerings, and in-flight catering. Through Encalm Eats, the company plans to build a portfolio of original food and beverage concepts alongside select partner brands, focusing on authentic flavours, operational excellence, and evolving consumer preferences.

At IndiSip Café, guests can choose from a wide selection of beverages inspired by India's tea culture, including Ginger Cardamom Chai, Kesar Chai, Gulab Chai, and Kashmiri Kahwa. The menu also features handcrafted coffees, iced lattes, espressos, and indulgent shakes designed to cater to both traditional and modern tastes.

Complementing the beverage selection is a food menu that blends regional favourites with café classics. Offerings include Masala Samosa, Khopara Patties, Irani Bun Maska, Achari Paneer Tikka Wraps, and Achari Chicken Tikka Wraps, alongside croissants, muffins, cookies, and other grab-and-go options suited to today's travellers.

Commenting on the launch, Vikas Sharma, Group Chief Executive Officer, Encalm, said the introduction of Encalm Eats marks the next phase of the company's vision to create a comprehensive hospitality ecosystem. He noted that food and beverage experiences remain one of hospitality's most important touchpoints and that IndiSip reflects the company's commitment to enhancing every stage of the guest journey.

Deepak Bhatia, Business Head, Encalm Eats, added that the company intends to build a portfolio of concepts rooted in authentic flavours, consumer insight, and consistent quality. He described IndiSip as the first step in a larger strategy to create memorable dining experiences through thoughtfully designed food and beverage brands.

The launch of IndiSip Café signals the beginning of Encalm Eats' broader expansion plans, with the company aiming to introduce innovative dining concepts across multiple formats and locations. As consumer expectations continue to evolve, Encalm Eats plans to focus on creating culinary experiences that combine authenticity, convenience, and quality.

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