In Bahadurgarh, Punjab, two teenage sisters, Mannat (16) and Eknoor Mehmi (15), turned a family necessity into a successful venture: ‘India Goat Milk Farm’. Their entrepreneurial journey began after a personal health crisis revealed the health benefits of goat milk.

Four years ago, Mannat was diagnosed with jaundice, and a well-meaning elder suggested goat milk to aid her recovery. This led their father to invest Rs 20,000 in a single goat.

“We were quite young and had always wanted a pet dog or a cat, so we were just very excited about having a goat at least,” says Mannat.

The family quickly realised the benefits of goat milk when they incorporated it into their daily diet. “After we started using the milk in our house every day, we saw great results,” Mannat adds. “We didn’t get sick as often and recovered quickly if we did.”

Goat milk, known for its high nutritional value, contains essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals. A study in the National Library of Medicine highlights its immunomodulatory effects and antimicrobial properties.

Word soon spread, and people began approaching the sisters for goat milk. Initially, we gave it away for free to a lot of people,” says Mannat.

Recognising the growing demand, the sisters decided to turn their small family setup into a business, aiming to serve health-conscious consumers and the community. They used idle family land and set up a goat farm.

Their first shed was made from bamboo, but it wasn’t effective in winter. “Goats stay healthy if the minimum temperature of their shed is between 25 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees,” explains Mannat. After learning from early mistakes, they built a more durable, concrete shed.

The sisters chose to specialise in Saanen goats from Switzerland due to their high milk production. Starting with just five goats, they now have 60 Saanen goats, along with Alpine and cross-breed varieties.

One of the key factors in their success is their competitive pricing. Selling goat milk at Rs 400 per litre, they undercut prices in larger cities, where it costs Rs 500 to Rs 900.

This pricing model attracted a loyal customer base, especially during peak demand seasons like dengue outbreaks, when the milk's essential nutrients are in high demand.

The sisters’ entrepreneurial journey has garnered significant recognition. In 2022, they won the Future Tycoons Startup Challenge, securing Rs 51,000 in prize money.

Committed to supporting others in goat farming, the sisters offer a two-day training programme, sharing essential knowledge about farming techniques, production, and business operations. “A lot of women and children come, especially girls our own age who saw what we did and were inspired,” says Mannat.

The sisters’ success goes beyond business. They ensure that their community benefits from their knowledge and products. By teaching local farmers about goat farming, production methods, and sustainable practices, they contribute to the economic growth of the region.