The National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI): A Premier Research Institution in India

The National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) is a leading research organization in India that specializes in dairy science and technology. Established in 1923, it is headquartered in Karnal, Haryana. As part of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), NDRI plays a crucial role in advancing dairy research, education, and extension services.

Key Functions and Contributions

The NDRI executes a wide range of functions that contribute significantly to the dairy sector in India. These include research, education, technology transfer, collaboration, and publication of research findings.

Research

NDRI conducts research in diverse areas of dairy science, including animal breeding, nutrition, health, milk production, processing, and product development. This research helps in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of the dairy sector.

Education

The institute offers comprehensive educational programs at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels in dairy science and technology. These programs contribute to the development of skilled professionals in the dairy sector, ensuring a steady supply of knowledgeable personnel.

Technology Transfer

NDRI works on transferring research findings to farmers and dairy industries, which helps in improving productivity and sustainability in dairy farming. The institute ensures that innovative research is effectively communicated to the industry, leading to practical improvements in dairy practices.

Collaboration

The institute collaborates with national and international research organizations, universities, and dairy industries. These partnerships are essential for promoting innovation and best practices in dairy farming and processing.

Publications and Training

NDRI consistently publishes research findings and conducts training programs for farmers and dairy professionals. These activities enhance their knowledge and skills, leading to better practices in the dairy sector.

The Evolution of the National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI)

The roots of the NDRI can be traced back to the Imperial Institute of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, which was initially established in 1923 in Bangalore. Over the years, the institute underwent several changes, including a name change to Homeric Dairy Institute in 1936, and was officially renamed as the Public Dairy Research Institute in 1947 after India's independence.

By 1955, the NDRI headquarters were shifted to Karnal, while the installations in Bangalore were retained as a Regional Station to serve the Southern States.

Current Programs and Admissions at NDRI, Karnal

At present, the Public Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) Karnal offers a degree in Dairy Technology, Parchment in Dairy Technology, Parchment in Beast Husbandry and Dairying, and a Master’s program in dairying. The institute also provides doctoral programs in colorful disciplines of dairying and dairy technology.

B. Tech. Degree Program in Dairy Technology

The B. Tech. Degree Program in Dairy Technology offers intensive training in the processing and quality control of milk and dairy products, as well as the engineering aspects of dairy processing equipment. Interested candidates need to have successfully completed their 10 2 or its equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English from a Board/University honored by the NDRI.

Admission Process

The admissions to the Bachelor of Technology (DT) program are conducted through an All India Combined Entrance Examination (AICEE) organized by the Education Division of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in New Delhi.

Master’s Programs

The duration of the Master's program in dairying is minimal 3 semesters for those who have completed a 3-year UG degree program and 2 semesters for those with a 4-year UG professional degree. Candidates are selected based on merit, with the merit list prepared on the basis of entrance examination marks.

Parchment Programs

The Parchment programs in Dairy Technology and Beast Husbandry and Dairying have a duration of three semesters. Admissions to these programs are done through an entrance examination conducted by the respective University.

In conclusion, the National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) continues to play a vital role in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of the dairy sector in India, contributing significantly to food security and the livelihoods of millions of people involved in dairy farming.