Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio show, showcased distinctive Indian cheeses like Kalari from Jammu and Kashmir, known as the “Mozzarella of Kashmir.” He also mentioned “Chhurpi,” a cheese made from yak milk in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Ladakh, and “Topli Nu Paneer,” also called “Surti Cheese,” originating from Maharashtra and Gujarat.
Local residents of Udhampur shared their thoughts on Kalari cheese after the Prime Minister’s mention. Asha Sharma expressed gratitude, highlighting Kalari’s Geographical Indication (GI) tag and its role in providing employment opportunities to many youths in the Dogra community. She praised PM Modi for recognizing Kalari as a significant achievement.
Gagan Sharma, another Udhampur resident, emphasized Kalari’s importance as a traditional local delicacy. He recalled PM Modi’s past mentions of Kalari and how its GI tag has boosted business and put Udhampur on the map. Neetu Sharma echoed similar sentiments, expressing pride in Kalari’s nationwide recognition and its role in creating job opportunities for the unemployed.
