In 2023, the beloved Udhampur Kaladi, a distinctive dairy product from the hilly regions of Udhampur district in Jammu & Kashmir, received the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This recognition highlights not only its unique origin but also its exceptional quality, deeply rooted in the geographical conditions of the region. The GI tag is expected to bring multiple benefits to the local community, including boosting income and employment for families involved in Kaladi production, promoting the product throughout the Udhampur district, and opening up organized markets for its sale. This achievement is also poised to uplift the socio-economic status of farmers in the region, especially women, who play a crucial role in Kaladi making.
What Makes Udhampur Kaladi Special?
Kaladi is a local favorite, often considered one of the most unique cheeses in the world due to its distinct flavor, preparation method, and texture. Unlike other cheeses, Kaladi is made from raw, full-fat milk that’s churned in a traditional black iron pot. The intricate process of making Kaladi includes:
- Adding sour milk or curd to separate the milk solids.
- Stretching the cheese to achieve the desired texture.
- Cooling the cheese on a black iron pot.
- Placing the cheese in a basin to harden.
- Sun-drying the cheese to remove excess moisture.
The result is a high-energy, nutrient-rich product, containing a perfect blend of proteins, carbohydrates, and minerals. With its rich nutritional profile and delicious flavor, Kaladi is widely consumed as a popular street snack and can also be used in traditional curry preparations.
Kaladi’s Cultural and Economic Significance
Udhampur Kaladi is not only a culinary delight but also a vital part of the local economy. In particular, the areas of Ramnagar, Panchari, and Chenani are recognized as hubs for Kaladi production, where many families are involved in the process. Rural women, in particular, play an essential role in its preparation, often passing down the traditional methods of Kaladi making from one generation to the next.
The recognition of Udhampur Kaladi through the GI tag has opened doors for organized markets and has the potential to create new economic opportunities for local farmers. The promotion of Kaladi on a broader scale will not only increase demand but also preserve the traditional craft of Kaladi making that has been an integral part of Udhampur’s cultural heritage.
A Nutrient-Packed Street Snack
Kaladi is not just a regional favorite; it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. High in energy value, it provides a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and essential minerals, making it an ideal food for both sustenance and indulgence. In local markets, it is commonly sold as “Kalari-Kulcha,” a popular street snack that pairs the creamy, stretchy Kaladi with a soft kulcha (flatbread), offering a flavorful bite that locals and visitors alike can’t resist.
The Path Ahead: Preserving Tradition and Expanding Markets
With the GI tag in place, Udhampur Kaladi is poised for greater recognition, both within India and internationally. The tag not only secures the authenticity of the product but also ensures that only Kaladi made in the specific regions of Udhampur can carry this prestigious name. This distinction will help in promoting Kaladi as a unique dairy product with deep cultural roots, while also paving the way for expanding its presence in organized markets.
The future of Udhampur Kaladi looks promising as the GI tag helps protect this traditional cheese, giving a significant boost to the local economy, and preserving an age-old culinary tradition for generations to come.
