India's artisanal cheesemaking sector received international recognition after four Indian cheese varieties won awards at the Mundial do Queijo do Brasil 2026 held in São Paulo, Brazil. The country secured one Super Gold, two Golds, and one Silver, marking its debut at the global competition.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the achievement in a post on X, highlighting the growing presence of Indian dairy products globally.
He wrote, "Cheese from India makes its mark globally India made an impressive debut at the Mundial do Queijo do Brasil 2026, a vibrant international competition for cheese and dairy products. Four Indian products won medals, including one Super Gold, two Golds, and one Silver."
The highest recognition, Super Gold, was awarded to Eleftheria Gulmarg, a Brie-style cheese. Two Gold medals were won by Yak Churpi-Soft from Nordic Farm in Leh, Ladakh, and Eleftheria Brunost, a whey-based cheese. The Silver medal went to Eleftheria Kaali Miri, a Belper Knolle-style cheese.
Cheese from India makes its mark globally…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2026
India made an impressive debut at the Mundial do Queijo do Brasil 2026, which is a vibrant international competition for cheese and dairy products. Four Indian products won medals, including 1 Super Gold, 2 Golds and 1 Silver.
The…
“Such successes strengthen India's artisanal dairy sector on the world stage,” he added.
The Prime Minister also congratulated Mausam Narag, founder of Eleftheria, and Thenlay Nurboo of Nordic Farm for their work.
According to a report by India Today, the competition brought together participants from 30 countries, featuring around 2,700 cheeses and judged by more than 350 experts.
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Alongside the contest, the Indian team organised tastings and discussions showcasing artisanal cheesemaking practices in the country.
India's participation included a wider display of products beyond cheese. The showcase featured 11 varieties of cheese, including Churpi, along with Gir cow ghee, camel milk, saffron-infused camel milk, camel milk chocolate, and camel milk powder. These products were presented and sampled at the venue, receiving attention from visitors and judges.
With more than 40,000 visitors attending the event, the Indian pavilion attracted significant interest and became one of the most visited sections. The participation was seen as both a competition entry and a broader presentation of Indian food traditions.
Details of the Award-Winning Cheeses
1. Eleftheria Gulmarg is a soft-ripened, double-crème Brie-style cheese made in Mumbai using cow's milk. It has a white rind and a creamy texture with mild earthy and mushroom-like flavours. The cheese is typically aged for two to three weeks.
2. Yak Churpi (Soft) is a traditional Himalayan cheese made from yak or chauri milk. It has a soft, white texture and is commonly used in local dishes such as soups, curries, and vegetable preparations. It is known for being high in protein and having a slightly tangy taste.
3. Eleftheria Brunost is a whey-based cheese made by caramelising milk sugars. It has a firm texture and a flavour described as a mix of salted caramel and toffee. It is used in both sweet and savoury dishes and is often served with breakfast items.
4. Eleftheria Kaali Miri is a cheese ball made from cow's milk, mixed with garlic and Himalayan pink salt, and coated with black pepper. It has a firm texture and a strong flavour and is typically grated or shaved over dishes.
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