Gujarat Man Establishes Donkey Farm, Sells Donkey Milk Online for Rs 5,000 per Litre

A donkey farm in Gujarat’s Patan district is gaining attention for its unique offering – donkey milk. Dhiren Solanki established the farm with 42 donkeys and has been able to earn Rs 2-3 lakh a month by supplying donkey milk to clients in southern states.

Initially, he faced difficulties as there was little demand for donkey milk in Gujarat. However, he managed to find clients in Karnataka and Kerala, including cosmetic companies that use donkey milk in their products.

The price of donkey milk is significantly higher than that of cow milk, with rates ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 7,000, compared to Rs 65 for cow milk. The milk is stored in freezers to maintain its freshness and is also sold in powdered form, commanding prices of up to about a lakh per kilogram.

Solanki has invested about 38 lakh rupees in the farm and aims to expand further, expressing a desire for support from the state government. Donkey milk has historical significance in medicine, with the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates prescribing it for various health issues.

Modern research has highlighted its composition, which is more similar to human milk than cow milk, making it a suitable option for infants, especially those allergic to cow milk. The milk is also recognized for its potential in regulating intestinal microflora, boosting immunity, and possessing anti-diabetic qualities.

Additionally, it has a higher shelf life due to its low pathogen content. Despite its numerous benefits, the availability of donkey milk remains limited, contributing to its high prices.

Solanki’s success in tapping into this niche market reflects the potential for donkey milk to find a place in the dairy industry.