Halari donkey

About Halari donkey:

• It is native to the Halar region of Gujarat especially found in the in the semi-arid landscape of Jamnagar and Dwarka districts
• Appearance: It is white in colour, and is larger and more resilient than other donkey breeds.
• They are social animals and form close bonds with people, supporting them for transport needs.
• Uses
  • The Bharwad and Rabari pastoralists are the main communities which use this donkey as a pack animal to carry luggage during migration with small ruminants.
  • The Kumbhar (potter) community also uses this animal for pottery work in Dwarka in the Jamnagar region.
  • Halari donkey milk is known for its sweetness. Milk powder made from it can fetch upwards of ₹7,000 a kg in the international market, and is used for cosmetic purposes.
• Conservation status: It is considered endangered; the surviving population of the Halari donkey numbers fewer than 500. 

Q1: Who are Rabari pastoralists?

The Rabaris are pastoralist nomadic communities scattered across the deserts of western India. Traditionally, they earned their livelihood by grazing sheep, and tending to herds of cattle and buffaloes.

Source: In Frames: Brains and brawn

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