India’s diverse culinary heritage shines on the global stage as three states feature in Taste Atlas' list of the world's best food regions. Punjab ranks 7th, Maharashtra 41st, and West Bengal 54th, with 'Southern India' also recognized at 59th. The rankings celebrate the distinct flavors and cultural significance of regional Indian cuisines, reflecting the country's vast gastronomic diversity. Each state is renowned for its unique dishes, from Punjab’s rich curries to West Bengal's sweets. The recognition underscores India's growing influence in global food culture and its place as a gastronomic powerhouse.

D’YAVOL, co-founded by Shah Rukh Khan and Aryan Khan, has won the prestigious titles of ‘Best Overall Scotch’ and ‘Best Of Class’ Blended Malt Scotch Whisky at the 2024 New York World Spirits Competition. Their flagship whisky, INCEPTION, features a blend of rare single malts aged up to 12 years. Shah Rukh Khan and Aryan Khan expressed pride in the whisky’s craftsmanship, marking a milestone for their brand, which emphasizes quality and authenticity. The whisky has already gained acclaim for its complex flavor profile, including dark chocolate, dried fruit, and subtle smokiness.

A WWF report highlights India’s food habits as the most sustainable among G20 countries. It states that if the world followed India's diet, the climate impact of food production could be minimized by 2050. India’s millet-focused diet is praised for its low environmental impact, while countries like Argentina, Australia, and the US fare poorly in comparison. The report also encourages adopting sustainable diets, such as plant-based proteins, to reduce land use and restore nature. India's National Millet Campaign is recognized as a key effort in promoting climate-friendly food habits.

A study from the National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases in Beijing suggests that catching up on sleep during weekends could reduce heart disease risk by up to 20%. Researchers analyzed nearly 91,000 people and found that those who compensated for sleep deprivation with up to 16 extra hours of sleep had a 19% lower risk of heart disease. The study, presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress 2024, highlights the benefits of weekend rest for those with weekday sleep deficits. However, experts advise moderation to avoid disrupting circadian rhythms.

TIME magazine's 2024 'World's Greatest Places' list features two Indian establishments: Manam Chocolate in Hyderabad and Naar in Himachal Pradesh. Manam Chocolate, known for its premium craft chocolates made from Indian-grown cacao, has gained international acclaim. Its flagship store in Hyderabad offers a unique chocolate experience and an experiential café. Naar, also recognized, stands out for its innovative use of local ingredients. This recognition highlights India's growing influence in the global culinary scene.

Kolkata's iconic 122-year-old bakery, Nahoum & Sons, has removed chicken items from its menu, reverting to its Jewish roots due to the unavailability of kosher chicken. The bakery, established in 1902 by Nahoum Israel Mordecai, will also close on Saturdays and Jewish holidays, following traditions. The decision, made by fourth-generation owner Adam Nahoum, who resides in Israel, reflects the family's commitment to their heritage. Despite this change, the bakery will continue to offer popular non-vegetarian items like fish pantheras and egg chops. The move highlights the challenges faced by Kolkata's dwindling Jewish community in maintaining kosher practices.

West Bengal’s Chingri Malai Curry has been ranked 31st on Taste Atlas's list of the top 50 seafood dishes worldwide, marking it as the only Indian entry. This beloved Bengali dish, known for its creamy coconut milk base and succulent jumbo prawns, is a staple in traditional celebrations and everyday meals. The curry combines spices like garam masala and mustard paste, creating a rich, aromatic flavor profile. Its inclusion in the global rankings underscores the international appeal of Indian cuisine and highlights the unique flavors of Bengali culinary traditions.

Bengaluru’s Amrut Distilleries has clinched the title of “World’s Best Whiskey” at the 2024 International Spirits Challenge in London. Competing against leading brands from Scotland, Ireland, and Japan, Amrut secured five gold medals in the "World Whisky Category." Their flagship single malt, Amrut Fusion, led the triumph, earning recognition for its exceptional quality. This achievement underscores India’s rising stature in the global spirits industry and highlights Amrut’s dedication to producing world-class whiskey. The accolade marks a significant milestone for the distillery, solidifying its reputation on the international stage.

Aamras from India has been named the best dish made with mangoes by TasteAtlas, a popular food guide. The list also features Mango Chutney from Maharashtra at fifth place. Other Indian dishes like Aam Dal and Amba also made the list. Aamras, a puréed mango pulp dessert, topped the rankings, followed by Thailand's Mango Sticky Rice and the Philippines' Sorbetes. Desi netizens celebrated the recognition of Indian dishes. TasteAtlas shared the list on social media, sparking joy and surprise among food lovers worldwide.

Tripadvisor's annual beach rankings have added a new category for sustainability, and European beaches have taken the lead, occupying 7 of the top 10 spots. India's Radhanagar Beach in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands impressed with its clear waters and eco-friendly initiatives, securing the #2 spot. The ranking highlights travellers' growing concern for environmental sustainability in their travel choices. The top sustainable beaches offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and responsible tourism practices, making them must-visit destinations for eco-conscious travellers.