Shri U. Babu, a thriving entrepreneur from Vannarpet, is known for establishing India's largest donkey farm and becoming a reliable supplier of donkey milk to a couple of cosmetic manufacturing companies. Despite being a school dropout, Shri Babu's unwavering entrepreneurial spirit has propelled him to success, making him a reputable figure in the industry.

Shri Babu's team participated in the Entrepreneurship Development Program at ICAR-National Research Centre on Equines, where they gained technical knowledge about donkeys and donkey farming. In addition, ICAR - NRCE facilitated the elite Poitu donkeys to Shri Babu for establishing the donkey farm “The Donkey Palace”. Despite the challenges posed by the limited number of donkeys in Tamil Nadu, with each milking female capable of producing less than a liter of milk per day for six months, his determination and hard work have paid off, and he has established himself as a successful entrepreneur.

At present, Shri Babu has established India's largest donkey farm, managing approximately 5000 donkeys through a franchise model with more than 75 franchisee farms. He has also established "The Donkey Palace," One Health - One Solution - A Conservation, Recreation, and Awareness Center, which aims to promote donkeys' value and contribution to society and the economy.

The Donkey Palace's products include fresh donkey milk, donkey milk powder; donkey dung used as fertilizer, and distilled donkey urine for Siddha medicines and the pharma industry. Shri Babu's vision is to preserve indigenous donkey breeds, raise their status, donkey conservation, and to eliminate the pessimistic perceptions of donkeys in society.

Shri Babu's success is a source of inspiration for young entrepreneurs everywhere, and he continues to strive for excellence in all his endeavors. Donkey milk, with its high nutritional and therapeutic value, is gaining popularity worldwide, and his pioneering work has put Tamil Nadu on the map in this emerging industry.

(Source: ICAR- National Research Centre on Equines, Hisar)