In a remarkable turn of events, Raju Joseph, a lawyer from M Pudupatti village near Musiri in Tamil Nadu’s Trichy district, has turned his donkey farm into a profitable enterprise. Over the past six years, Joseph has transformed a modest beginning into a thriving business, generating substantial monthly income and inspiring others.
Raju Joseph initially ran a farm with goats, cows, and hens. However, he shifted his focus to donkey farming when he noticed the decline in donkey’s population in Tamil Nadu, which had fallen below a thousand. Motivated by a desire to address the scarcity of donkeys, Joseph embarked on this new venture.
Despite facing challenges and skepticism from those around him, Joseph persisted with his donkey farm. Starting with just five or six donkeys, he has since expanded his business into a model for success.
Joseph’s farm is not only known for its donkey milk but also for a range of products made from its milk, such as cosmetics, medicinal oils, and fragrant incense. His products, including thailam (medicinal oil made from donkey hair) and sambrani (incense made from donkey dung), are crafted naturally and sold both in local markets and online.
The diverse product line contributes significantly to his monthly earnings, which total approximately Rs 3.5 lakh. This success has not only validated Joseph’s unconventional career shift but also silenced critics who initially doubted his choice.
Recognizing the importance of reviving the declining donkey population, Joseph is dedicated to sharing his knowledge with aspiring farmers. He conducts online classes that cover various aspects of donkey farming, including starting a farm, securing loans, and proper donkey care. These classes aim to inspire and assist young people interested in this field.
By educating and guiding others, Joseph hopes to stimulate interest in donkey farming and contribute to the resurgence of the donkey population.
Raju Joseph’s journey from a lawyer to a successful donkey farmer highlights the potential of innovative farming practices and serves as a motivational story for many.
