In an unexpected move, the government of India has announced a financial support program for those wishing to rear donkeys and horses, offering assistance up to 5 million rupees. This initiative has been prompted by the alarming decline in donkey populations, with official figures indicating a 60% decrease since 2012, resulting in only approximately 123,000 donkeys remaining in the country as of the 2019 livestock census. By including donkeys in the National Livestock Mission, the government aims to promote the breeding and conservation of this species, ensuring that it does not vanish from the agricultural landscape.

This effort is not solely about providing financial aid; it reflects a broader strategy to revitalize the role of donkeys in Indian agriculture. As their traditional roles, such as carrying loads and transporting materials, decrease, the government recognizes the need to incentivize citizens to keep and breed these animals. States that take initiatives for donkey breed conservation will also receive assistance from the central government, reinforcing a collective responsibility to protect these animals as part of the country's agricultural heritage.

In addition to providing financial support, the government is actively promoting products made from donkey milk, which is being marketed as a beneficial and unique offering. This initiative represents a multifaceted approach not only to stem the decline in donkey populations but also to encourage local economies through donkey-related enterprises. As the program rolls out, citizens are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to contribute to breed conservation and potentially boost their livelihoods.