Livestock beauty contests, cheese-making event mark Day 2 of Dairy Mela
On the second day of the National Dairy Mela and Agri Expo-2026 at ICAR–National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), several competitions were conducted among livestock of different breeds, along with events celebrating dairy innovation, rural skills and entrepreneurship, drawing thousands of farmers and participants on Saturday.
The dairy animal milking competitions tested efficient handling skills, while beauty contests showcased top breeds for their health, structure and overall appeal.
Rural women excelled in a cheese-making contest held at the Graduate Laboratory of the Dairy Technology Division, showcasing traditional recipes, local varieties and innovative flavours to promote women-led dairy businesses.
Dr Dheer Singh, director, ICAR-NDRI, told the media that the National Dairy Mela serves as a key platform for farmers to learn modern dairy techniques, animal management and value addition. He highlighted that the vibrant activities attracted large crowds of farmers, students, women entrepreneurs and livestock enthusiasts.
Chief guest of the second-day function, Vijendra Badgurjar, vice-chairman of the Haryana Scheduled Castes Commission, lauded NDRI’s outstanding work in dairy development and uplifting dairy farmers. He said that NDRI would continue its dedicated efforts for the upliftment of dairy farmers.
Student competitions at the mela ground engaged school and college youth on modern farming technologies, nutrition and career opportunities. An entrepreneurship panel discussion highlighted dairy sector opportunities, funding avenues, startups, value-added products and market linkages to inspire rural ventures.
Rural women also competed enthusiastically in a milking event at the Livestock Research Centre, sharing traditional methods. A farmer-scientist dialogue addressed breed improvement, feed management, disease control and sustainability. Fish farmers discussed aquaculture integration with dairy farming, pond management, feed practices and profitability.
Dr Gopal Sankhala, organising secretary, emphasised ICAR-NDRI’s dedication to rural empowerment through knowledge sharing, skill-building, and innovation. The mela continues to connect farmers with advanced scientific practices for a thriving dairy sector.
