Thenlay Nurboo, a 35-year-old from Durbuk Changthang in Ladakh, India, achieved a remarkable feat by winning a gold medal for his Yak Churpi at the Mundial do Queijo do Brasil 2026, an international cheese competition. Although he could not attend the event due to missing his yellow fever vaccination, he sent his churpi with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), which successfully showcased the traditional cheese. Nurboo expressed immense joy upon receiving the news, especially after being recognized by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ladakh's Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on social media.

Churpi, made from yak milk, is a staple of Ladakhi cuisine, traditionally prepared without rennet or culture, and is known for its firm, slightly sour taste. It is often used in local dishes like thukpa and provides instant energy for outdoor work. Nurboo emphasized that this award is not just a personal achievement but a recognition of the rich cultural heritage of the Changpa community, who have herded yaks for centuries. As president of the Yak Herders Association, he aims to use this recognition to revive interest in yak herding, which has declined in recent years due to a focus on Pashmina goats. The award serves as a tool to highlight the value of yak products and encourage sustainable practices in the region.