JAMMU, May 20: The G20 summit in Srinagar will feature a special culinary item from Udhampur called Kalhari, a ripened cheese product made from milk. Kalhari, known for its slight sourness and salty flavor, is a popular delicacy in Udhampur, including places like Channi and Patnitop. This move by the Union and Jammu and Kashmir governments aims to promote Kalhari globally.
For decades, women in Udhampur district have been making Kalhari and selling it in local markets to support their livelihoods. However, through the Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission (UMEED), women in various villages of Udhampur district now have the opportunity to produce Kalhari in larger quantities and earn a better income.
Under the UMEED initiative, a self-help group in Dhiran village has been actively involved in the systematic production of Kalhari. The women in the group are thrilled that their unique cheese product is gaining international recognition. They are currently preparing Kalhari for the upcoming G20 meeting in Srinagar, expressing their gratitude to the UT administration for the opportunity to showcase their product on such a prestigious platform.
The inclusion of Udhampur’s Kalhari at the G20 summit highlights the rich culinary heritage of the Dogra region and aims to elevate its profile on the global stage.
