Camel breeders in the Indian state of Rajasthan have found an alternative way to tackle the declining fortunes from tourism. Citing the low-calorie content in the milk from the desert animal, a non-government organization has launched a project under which camel's milk is marketed to hotels and tourists visiting historic palaces and desert towns.

The Food and Agriculture Organization says camel milk has vitamin C content three times higher than cow's milk. It is also rich in iron, unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin B.

"The response to camel milk as a health drink and to an ice cream made from the milk has been very encouraging," project coordinator Ilse Kohler-Rollefson told Reuters.

Kohler-Rollefson said the organization is also looking forward to market the camel milk for diabetes patients in the cities.