NDRI - National Dairy Research Institute

The National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), Karnal, stands as a shining light in the promotion of dairy education and research in the country. It was founded in 1923 under the name of Imperial Institute of Animal Husbandry and Dairying in Bangalore, which would mark the course of India's dairy industry. In 1936 the Imperial Dairy Institute became the property of India, and then in 1947 it was named as National Dairy Research Institute.

It transferred its headquarters to Karnal during 1955 by keeping all Bangalore establishments as a regional center.NDRI offers multidisciplinary academic programs ranging from B.Tech Dairy Technology to Diplomas, Postgraduate, and Doctorate, to develop expertise in dairy science, technology, and other disciplines related to dairy. They would have psychological openness to and innovative ideas into dairy research through in-house intensive training, world-class infrastructure, and research-mindedness.

As a strong entry point with an excellent admission process, NDRI has made history as one of the dairy talent-producing hubs, thereby giving a reasonable boost to India's scenario in agriculture and food sciences.

Highlights

Important Dates

Undergraduate (B.Tech) Courses and Admission Process

Program Offered

• B.Tech in Dairy Technology (DT)

Eligibility Criteria

• Candidates should have passed 10+2 or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English from a recognized board.
• Minimum 50% marks (40% for SC/ST/PH).
• Candidates appearing for 10+2 exams can also apply but must provide proof of eligibility at counseling.

Selection Process

• Admission is through the All India Entrance Examination (AIEEA) conducted by ICAR.
• Final selection is based on merit and counseling.

Diploma Courses and Admission Process

Programs Offered

1. Diploma in Dairy Technology
2. Diploma in Animal Husbandry & Dairying

Eligibility Criteria

• Passed 10th standard with minimum of 50% marks (40% for SC/ST/PH).
• Minimum age: 15 years as of July 31, 2025.
• Maximum age: 21 years (45 years for in-service candidates).

Selection Process

• Admission is done through an entrance exam conducted by NDRI at Karnal and regional centers (Bangalore, Kalyani).
• Final selection is based on merit in the entrance test and counseling.

Duration

• Three years with a semester-based system.
• Includes one semester of In-plant training/field training.

Postgraduate (M.Tech) Courses and Admission Process

Programs Offered

• Dairy Microbiology
• Dairy Chemistry
• Dairy Technology
• Dairy Engineering
• Animal Nutrition, Biotechnology, Genetics, and more

Eligibility Criteria

• Requires a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with 60% marks (50% for SC/ST/PH).
• Candidates appearing for final exams can apply but must produce certificates during counseling.
• Minimum age: 19 years as of July 31, 2025.

Selection Process

• Admission is through an entrance exam followed by counseling.
• In case of tie scores, prior academic performance or degree completion date will be considered.

Duration

• Two years for candidates with a 4-year UG degree.
• Three years for candidates with a 3-year UG degree.

Ph.D. Courses and Admission Process

Programs Offered

Ph.D. is available in disciplines like Dairy Technology, Dairy Microbiology, Animal Genetics, Livestock Management, and more.

Eligibility Criteria

• Master’s degree in a relevant field with:
• 6.60/10.00 OGPA for General/OBC.
• 5.60/10.00 OGPA for SC/ST/PH.
• 60% marks for candidates evaluated on a percentage basis (50% for SC/ST/PH).
• Completion of all degree requirements before July 31, 2025.

Selection Process

• Admission is based on entrance exam score and counseling.

Duration

• Minimum: Six semesters (3 years) for candidates with a 4+2 or 3+3 education framework.
• Maximum: Eight semesters for candidates requiring prerequisite courses.

Application Process

1. Visit the official NDRI website.
2. Fill out the online application form.
3. Upload scanned copies of:
• Passport-sized photograph.
• Signature.
• Relevant academic certificates.
4. Pay the application fee:
• General/OBC: ?800
• SC/ST/PH: ?400
5. Submit the completed application form.
6. Keep a copy of the acknowledgment for future reference.

Documents Required

• 10th and 12th mark sheets
• Graduation/Post-graduation certificates (for PG/Ph.D. applicants)
• Entrance exam scorecard
• Caste certificate (if applicable)
• Birth certificate or age proof
• Passport-sized photographs
• Scanned signature

Conclusion

The National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI), one of the premier institutions in India, provides education and pursuance of dairy research, particularly at undergraduate, diploma, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, thereby empowering the students to excel in dairy science in all synergic fields. NDRI has state-of-the-art facilities, an experienced faculty team, and research-driven approaches, designed for academic and professional growth.

The rigorous entrance examination system, the merit-based admission, and the high-quality practical training enable students to be prepared for the dairy sector challenges. Deserving candidates are also ensured by philanthropy through scholarships, counseling, and an open door to admission.

With time-tested innovations and excellence, NDRI is going on shaping the future of the Indian dairy industry by producing professionally equipped manpower in the agricultural and food sciences' progress and sustainability. Joining NDRI is a way towards joining a tradition of excellence which has a global impact on millions