Noting the rising global popularity of Indian cheese, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said India’s dairy sector is undergoing a major transformation, with traditional flavours from the country now reaching international plates.
In his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi highlighted how Indian dairy products are helping give local tastes a global identity, and said the “taste of India” is steadily making its way across the world.
He pointed out that two Indian cheese brands recently won awards at an international cheese competition held in Brazil, a development that has sparked widespread discussion on social media and renewed interest in India’s diverse cheese varieties.
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Citing examples, the Prime Minister praised Kalari cheese from Jammu and Kashmir, often referred to as the “mozzarella of Kashmir,” traditionally prepared by the Gujjar-Bakarwal community for generations. He also mentioned Chhurpi, a popular cheese in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Ladakh, noting that its simplicity reflects the essence of the Himalayan region. The specialty, he said, is that it is made from yak milk. PM Modi further referred to Topli Nu Paneer, also known as Surti cheese, from Maharashtra and Gujarat, describing it as a product with a distinct cultural identity.
He emphasised that several Indian companies are investing in the dairy and cheese sector, helping domestic products meet global quality standards. According to him, Indian cheese is increasingly crossing borders and finding space in international markets and restaurants.
“Today, as we speak of local to global, the example of Indian cheese shows us the way forward. I am confident that India’s taste, tradition, and quality will offer the world a new experience and build a deeper connection with India,” the Prime Minister said.