National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) 2026: Courses, Admission, Fees & Research

Overview

The National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) is India's premier institution dedicated to dairy education, research, and extension services. Operating under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the institute holds the status of a Deemed-to-be University, reflecting its excellence in dairy education, research, and innovation. Located in Karnal, Haryana, NDRI has played a significant role in transforming India's dairy sector by developing advanced technologies, improving dairy animal productivity, and producing highly skilled professionals for the dairy industry.

Basic Information

History

The institute was established in 1923 as the Imperial Institute for Animal Husbandry and Dairying in Bengaluru. In 1955, its headquarters shifted to Karnal, Haryana. Over the years, NDRI has become India's leading dairy research institution and received the status of a Deemed University to provide higher education in dairy science and allied disciplines.

Recognition and Accreditation

·         Deemed-to-be University under ICAR

·         Funded by the Government of India

·         Operates under the administrative oversight of the Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), Government of India.

·         Recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC)

·         One of ICAR's four Deemed Universities

Vision

To become a globally recognized institution in dairy education, research, innovation, and technology development for sustainable dairy production.

Mission

·         Promote excellence in dairy education.

·         Undertake cutting-edge research to advance dairy science, technology, and innovation.

·         Develop technologies for milk production and processing.

·         Improve livestock productivity and health.

·         Support India's dairy farmers through extension services.

·         Produce skilled professionals for the dairy sector.

Why Choose NDRI?

·         India's premier dairy research institute.

·         Government-funded ICAR institution.

·         Deemed University status.

·         Excellent laboratory and research infrastructure.

·         Strong industry collaborations.

·         Modern dairy farm and processing facilities.

·         Experienced faculty and scientists.

·         National and international research projects.

·         Good placement opportunities in dairy and food industries.

·         Scholarships for eligible students.

Campus Facilities

NDRI provides modern academic and residential facilities, including:

·         Smart classrooms

·         Advanced research laboratories

·         Dairy processing plants

·         Experimental dairy farms

·         Central library

·         Computer center

·         Hostels

·         Sports complex

·         Medical facilities

·         Auditorium

·         Cafeteria

·         Wi-Fi campus

·         Research farms

·         Innovation and incubation support

Schools and Academic Divisions

Academic programs are offered through specialized divisions such as:

·         Dairy Technology

·         Dairy Engineering

·         Dairy Chemistry

·         Dairy Microbiology

·         Animal Genetics and Breeding

·         Animal Nutrition

·         Livestock Production Management

·         Veterinary Public Health

·         Dairy Economics and Business Management

·         Agricultural Extension

Courses Offered

Undergraduate

·         B. Tech Dairy Technology

·         B. Tech Food Technology (subject to current admission notifications)

·         B. Tech Biotechnology (subject to institute offerings)

Postgraduate

·         MTech

·         M.Sc.

·         MBA (Dairy Business Management)

Doctoral

·         Ph.D. programs in various dairy and allied sciences.

Admission Process 2026

Admissions are generally conducted through national-level entrance procedures prescribed by ICAR and the institute.

Typical process:

1.      Online application.

2.      Entrance examination or ICAR counselling (as applicable).

3.      Merit list.

4.      Document verification.

5.      Fee payment.

6.      Admission confirmation.

Applicants should verify the latest admission schedule on the official website before applying.

Eligibility Criteria

Undergraduate

·         10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/Biology (depending on Programme).

·         Minimum qualifying marks as prescribed for the Programme.

Postgraduate

·         Bachelor's degree in the relevant discipline.

Ph.D.

·         Master's degree in the relevant specialization.

·         Additional eligibility as notified by the institute.

Research and Innovation

NDRI is internationally known for research in:

·         Dairy animal breeding

·         Animal nutrition

·         Dairy microbiology

·         Milk processing technologies

·         Dairy engineering

·         Food safety

·         Dairy biotechnology

·         Livestock health

·         Climate-resilient dairy farming

·         Functional dairy foods

·         Milk quality improvement

·         Dairy waste management

The institute has developed numerous technologies benefiting dairy farmers and the dairy processing industry.

Placement Opportunities

Graduates from NDRI are recruited by:

·         Dairy cooperatives

·         Food processing companies

·         Government organizations

·         Research institutes

·         Animal nutrition companies

·         Dairy equipment manufacturers

·         Private dairy industries

·         Multinational food companies

·         Academic institutions

Scholarships

Eligible students may receive:

·         ICAR scholarships

·         Government scholarships

·         Merit scholarships

·         Research fellowships

·         Junior and Senior Research Fellowships

·         Financial assistance under institute guidelines

Major Recruiters

Common recruiters include:

·         Amul

·         Mother Dairy

·         Nestlé India

·         Hatsun Agro Product

·         Britannia Industries

·         Heritage Foods

·         Paras Dairy

·         Verka

·         Schreiber Dynamix Dairies

·         ITC Foods

Fee Structure

Note: The fee structure below is based on the latest official NDRI fee notification. The actual fee payable may vary depending on institute revisions, hostel allotment, caution money, and other applicable charges. Candidates are advised to verify the latest fee details before admission.

Additional Charges (if applicable)

Important Points

·         The above annual fee includes hostel accommodation but does not include mess/food charges.

·         SC/ST students admitted to B.Tech. programs may receive exemptions from certain fee components as per ICAR/NDRI rules.

·         Caution money is refundable after completion of the Programme, subject to the institute's refund policy.

·         Scholarships and fellowships are available for eligible students under ICAR and institute regulations.

Contact Details

Address

ICAR – National Dairy Research Institute

Karnal, Haryana – 132001, India

Official Website

ICAR-NDRI Official Website

Email & Phone

Available through the institute's official contact directory.

Key Highlights

·         Established in 1923.

·         Premier dairy research institute in India.

·         ICAR Deemed-to-be University.

·         Located in Karnal, Haryana.

·         Government-funded institution.

·         Advanced research infrastructure.

·         Strong industry linkages.

·         National and international collaborations.

·         Focus on innovation, dairy technology, and sustainable livestock development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the National Dairy Research Institute in India?

The National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) is India's premier institute for dairy education, research, and extension. Located in Karnal, Haryana, it functions under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and holds the status of a Deemed-to-be University. NDRI is known for its contributions to dairy science, milk processing technologies, livestock improvement, and human resource development in the dairy sector.

2. When was the National Dairy Research Institute established?

The National Dairy Research Institute was established on 1 July 1923 in Bengaluru (then Bangalore) as the Imperial Institute of Animal Husbandry and Dairying. In 1955, its headquarters were shifted to Karnal, Haryana, where it continues to operate today.

3. How can I apply for National Dairy Research Institute recruitment?

NDRI recruitment notifications for faculty, scientists, technical staff, administrative positions, research associates, JRFs, SRFs, project assistants, and contractual vacancies are published on the institute's official website. Candidates should regularly check the Recruitment or Career section, verify eligibility criteria, and submit their applications within the specified deadline.

4. Where is the National Dairy Research Institute Haryana located?

The main campus of the National Dairy Research Institute is situated in Karnal, Haryana (132001). The institute also operates regional campuses in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and Kalyani, West Bengal, to support region-specific dairy research and extension activities.

5. Is NDRI Karnal ghee available for purchase?

Yes. NDRI manufactures various dairy products, including ghee, through its experimental dairy. Availability may vary depending on production and stock. Interested buyers should contact the institute directly or visit the campus dairy outlet to confirm availability before purchasing.

6. What is the NDRI ghee price for 1 kg?

The 1 kg price of NDRI ghee is not fixed publicly and may change depending on production costs, packaging, and institute policies. Since prices are updated periodically, it is advisable to contact the NDRI dairy sales counter or visit the official website for the latest pricing information.

7. What is the National Dairy Research Institute Kalyani?

The Eastern Regional Station of NDRI is located in Kalyani, West Bengal. Established in 1964, it focuses on dairy research, livestock production, animal nutrition, breeding, milk quality, and technologies suited to the eastern and northeastern regions of India.

8. What products are available at the National Dairy Research Institute?

NDRI develops and produces a range of dairy products for research, training, and technology demonstration. Depending on availability, these may include:

·         Ghee

·         Butter

·         Cheese

·         Paneer

·         Dahi (Curd)

·         Flavored Milk

·         Ice Cream

·         Milk Sweets

·         Probiotic Dairy Products

·         Functional Dairy Products