Mann Ki Baat Highlights: PM Modi Applauds Indian Artisanal Cheeses Winning Global Honors in Brazil 2026

In the latest episode of Mann Ki Baat aired on April 26, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spotlighted a significant achievement for India’s dairy sector. He celebrated the global recognition of Indian artisanal cheeses at the Mundial do Queijo do Brasil 2026, where Indian producers secured top honors.India’s Big Win at Global Cheese AwardsIndia’s growing presence in the premium dairy segment received a major boost as two cheesemakers—Mausam Narang and Thenlay Nurboo—won four prestigious medals at the global competition.This achievement reflects a shift in India’s dairy industry from mass production to high-value, niche products like artisanal cheese.Award-Winning Indian Cheeses Making Headlines1. Eleftheria Gulmarg – India’s “Super Gold” PrideThis soft, creamy cheese inspired by Brie emerged as one of the top winners globally.Rich, buttery texture with earthy undertonesCompetes with established European cheesesRepresents India’s ability to master international cheese stylesWinning the “Super Gold” category places it among the finest cheeses worldwide.2. Yak Churpi-Soft – Ladakh’s Traditional InnovationOriginating from the Himalayan region, this cheese is a modern adaptation of traditional churpi.Made using milk from free-grazing yaks in LadakhSofter and more accessible compared to the traditional hard variantHighlights indigenous food heritage on a global platformThis recognition brings attention to tribal and regional dairy practices in India.3. Eleftheria Brunost – A Sweet Whey-Based DelightA rare category cheese, Brunost is known for its caramelized flavor profile.Produced by reducing whey until sugars caramelizeOffers a sweet, fudge-like tasteShowcases Indian innovation in global cheese techniquesIt reflects how Indian cheesemakers are experimenting beyond conventional dairy products.4. Eleftheria Kaali Miri – A Fusion of Swiss Style and Indian SpiceInspired by Belper Knolle, this cheese adds a strong Indian twist.Hard texture, ideal for gratingInfused with garlic and coated in black pepperPopular as a topping for gourmet dishesThis fusion product highlights how Indian flavors can elevate global cheese styles.PM Modi’s Message: Rise of Artisanal Dairy in IndiaDuring the broadcast, PM Modi emphasized a broader transformation within India’s dairy ecosystem:From Quantity to Quality: India is evolving beyond being just the world’s largest milk producerVocal for Local: Indigenous products are gaining international recognitionEconomic Potential: Artisanal cheese offers higher margins for farmers and startupsRegional Diversity: From Mumbai to Ladakh, India’s geography is shaping unique dairy productsThis aligns with the government’s push to promote local entrepreneurship and value-added agriculture.India’s success at an international cheese competition signals a turning point for the dairy sector. With increasing global demand for specialty foods, artisanal cheese could become a high-growth segment for Indian entrepreneurs. As innovation meets tradition, India is well-positioned to become a serious player in the global gourmet food market.FAQs1. What is Mundial do Queijo do Brasil?It is an international cheese competition held in Brazil, featuring top cheese producers from across the world.2. Which Indian cheeses won awards in 2026?Eleftheria Gulmarg, Yak Churpi-Soft, Eleftheria Brunost, and Eleftheria Kaali Miri won top honors.3. Why is artisanal cheese important for India?It offers higher profit margins, promotes local ingredients, and helps Indian products compete globally.4. What makes Yak Churpi unique?It is made from yak milk in Himalayan regions and represents traditional tribal dairy practices.5. How is India evolving in the dairy sector?India is moving from bulk milk production to premium, value-added dairy products like artisanal cheese.