Become a Donkey Farmer: Get Rs. 50 Lakh Subsidy from Government
India’s donkey population has fallen sharply in recent years, creating an unexpected concern for the government.
India is facing an unusual problem — donkeys are disappearing. The government has raised concerns as the country’s donkey population has dropped sharply in recent years.
One major reason is the rise of machines and vehicles. In the past, donkeys were widely used to carry bricks, sand, and construction materials in villages and small towns. But as tractors, trucks, and other machines replaced this work, fewer people continued raising donkeys.
To address this issue, the government has introduced support under the National Livestock Mission (NLM). The scheme offers financial assistance of up to ?50 lakh for people who want to start donkey breeding projects.
However, the funding comes with conditions. Applicants must set up a proper breeding unit with at least 50 female donkeys and 5 male donkeys. If the project cost is ?1 crore, the government can cover up to ?50 lakh, while the remaining amount must come from bank loans or personal investment.
The urgency behind this scheme comes from alarming data. According to the 20th Livestock Census (2019), India had only around 1.23 lakh donkeys left, marking a nearly 60% decline compared to 2012.
At the same time, donkey farming may offer new business opportunities. Farmers can sell breeding animals, supply working donkeys to rural industries, or produce donkey milk, which is used in premium health and cosmetic products. Since donkeys produce very small amounts of milk each day, it can sell at very high prices in niche markets.
There is also growing global demand for donkey hides, which are used to make ejiao, a gelatin used in traditional Chinese medicine.
With donkey numbers falling and new market demand emerging, the government hopes donkey breeding can help protect the species while creating new rural livelihood opportunities.
