Zanskar in Focus
In the UT of Ladakh, the Central government is trying to do the necessary linkages of local products with the rest of the markets.
Recent registration of “Local Butter (Zanskar Mar)” with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) marks a transformative moment for the Zanskar Valley and its rich but often overlooked pastoral heritage.
Under the guidance of the Higher Education Department, UT Ladakh, and the proactive leadership of Government Model Degree College Zanskar, this initiative elevates a traditional product long confined to local markets into a formally recognized regional brand.
Zanskar Mar, derived from the milk of the hardy Yak (Demo) grazing in the remote high-altitude Doksa pastures, is far more than a dairy product—it is a cultural emblem of the region’s resilience, craftsmanship, and ecological harmony. Despite its exceptional nutritional value and deep-rooted significance, it has remained outside mainstream markets due to the absence of branding and formal certification.
By collaborating with Enterprising Ladakh under the Ladakh Skill Development Mission, the college has opened new economic possibilities for local dairy farmers. FSSAI certification ensures consumer trust, wider visibility, and the potential for market expansion, enabling producers to secure fair pricing and sustainable livelihoods.
