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Healthy Donkey Contest Draws Crowd at Sagroli Agri-Tech Fest

Sagroli, Maharashtra – An unusual but exciting Contest stole the show at the Krushived – 2025 (Krushi Tantradyan Mahotsav) organized by Sanskriti Samvardhan Mandal’s Krishi Vignyan Kendra in Sagroli, Biloli Taluka, as farmers proudly presented their donkeys for the “Healthy Donkey” contest. The event, organized by Dharma Donkey Sanctuary under “Sparsham” project, aimed to highlight the importance of these often-overlooked animals and promote their well-being.

During the final day of a three-day at Krushived in Sagroli, Balaji Muttepwar of Aloor’s donkey was crowned champion among 42 competitors, claiming the top prize of Rs 5,000. This amount is specifically designated for the welfare of his winning animal. Local farmers Datta Ibitwar and Sanjay Ibitwar secured second and third places, receiving Rs 3,000 and Rs 2,000 respectively, also earmarked for the care and well-being of their donkeys.

I own 08 donkeys, one of my donkey won first prize at the unique ‘Healthy Donkey’ competition organized by Dharma Donkey Sanctuary in Sagroli! I’m thrilled and grateful for their dedication to donkey welfare.” –Balaji Muttepwar, Aloor, Tq. Degloor, Dist. Nanded.

The festival, which drew a large crowd of farmers and animal enthusiasts, featured a diverse array of livestock, including cows, buffaloes, goats, and horses. However, it was the donkey contest that generated the most buzz.

“We were delighted by the enthusiastic response from donkey herders,” said Rohit Deshmukh, Director of Dharma Donkey Sanctuary. “This competition is about recognizing the vital role donkeys play in our rural communities and encouraging their proper care. We are planning to expand the competition next year.”

A panel of veterinarians, including Dr. Nihal Mulla and Dr. Sanjay Alamwar, judged the donkeys on their health, appearance, and overall well-being.

The Dharma Donkey Sanctuary has been working for two decades to provide care for donkeys and educate animal owners about their needs. The “Healthy Donkey” contest is just one of their initiatives to raise awareness about these hardworking animals.

The event was also attended by dignitaries, including Dr. Rajkumar Padile, Deputy Commissioner of the Animal Husbandry Department, and Dr. Praveen Ghule, District Animal Husbandry Officer, who praised the initiative and its positive impact on the community. The event highlighted the often-overlooked contributions of donkeys to rural life, while also promoting animal welfare.