The Department of Animal Husbandry, UT Ladakh, on April 24 congratulated Thinley Norboo on his historic achievement of winning a Gold Medal at the prestigious World Cheese Championship held in Brazil. Norboo earned the top honour for his traditional product, Yak Churpi, bringing global recognition to Ladakh’s rich pastoral heritage.

Commending the achievement, Rudra Gaud, Secretary, Animal Husbandry, UT Ladakh, extended his congratulations and highlighted the vast potential of indigenous Ladakhi dairy products in international markets. He encouraged youth, particularly from nomadic and pastoral communities, to focus on value addition, branding, and global marketing of traditional products.

The Department also acknowledged the collaborative efforts behind this success. Special appreciation was extended to the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) for providing technical support and a platform for participation. The role of Ladakh Oma was also recognised for facilitating logistics and ensuring Norboo’s successful participation in the global event.

Following his return, Norboo was felicitated by the Director of Animal Husbandry, UT Ladakh, along with the Chief Animal Husbandry Officer (CAHO), Leh, in recognition of his dedication and contribution to promoting Ladakh’s dairy and livestock sector internationally.

This achievement underscores the exceptional quality of Himalayan Yak Churpi and opens new avenues for the socio-economic upliftment of nomadic herder communities across Ladakh.