Zal Rustam Kothavalla obtained his DSc degree (1946) from the University of Bombay. His specialization was in dairy science and animal husbandry. He was Director, Dairy Research, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, and Head, Imperial Institute of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Bangalore; Director, Dairy Research, Indian Dairy Research Institute; and Adviser, Dairy Development, Government of India.

Academic and Research Achievements: One of the first Indians to specialize in the science of dairying, genetics and cattle nutrition, Kothavalla made substantial contributions to the science and practice of dairying in tropical countries. He initiated, in India, the organized dairy industry after having made a detailed study of cattle and unorganized dairy industry. Kothavalla prepared a comprehensive 5-year milk development plan for the country, which was adjudged the best documents prepared for developing dairying in tropical countries at XII World Dairy Congress in 1949.

Other Contributions: Kothavalla was a Member of Indian Dairy Association.

Awards and Honours: Kothavalla received Silver Medal from the International Dairy Federation of the World (1949) and Gold Medal (Moose Medal) from the University of Bombay (1949).