Gulmarg, Yeoor, Konark: The Indian cheeses featured in PM Modi’s diplomatic gift to Swiss President

Three award-winning Indian cheeses, Gulmarg, Konark, and Yeoor, were presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Swiss President Guy Parmelin during their meeting in New Delhi on October 5. These cheeses were part of a broader bilateral exchange discussing transportation technologies, mobility systems, and infrastructure. Eleftheria Cheese, an artisanal producer based in Mumbai, crafted these cheeses. The cheeses were featured alongside the diplomatic talks and agreements between India and Switzerland.

Gulmarg, a Brie-style cheese, is aged for 2-3 weeks, resulting in a snowy, velvety rind and a buttery texture with a balanced, earthy, mushroomy flavor. It won Super Gold at the 4th Mundial do Queijo do Brasil 2026. Enjoyed with hot honey, candied pistachios, fig, or berry jam, or baked, it can also star in cheese platters or sourdough sandwiches.

Konark, a Tomme-style cheese, pays homage to the Konark Sun Temple chariot through its distinct shape. Aged for two months, it develops a rustic, natural rind and interior showcasing earthy, nutty, and herbaceous notes with a refreshing tang. Konark won silver at the World Cheese Awards 2025 in Bern, Switzerland, and is ideal for melting in fondue, gratins, or grilled cheese sandwiches.

Yeoor, inspired by the Swiss Gruyère tradition, is a mountain-style cheese aged for 8-9 months. Named after the Yeoor Hills near Mumbai, it boasts a smooth, supple texture with nutty, sweet, and herbaceous flavors that finish with a delicate savoury depth. Yeoor won silver at the World Cheese Awards 2025 and is perfect for fondues, grilled cheese sandwiches, baked dishes, or cheese boards.