Livestock officials and experts have assured that there is an abundant supply of sacrificial animals for the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha, scheduled for next week. Over 12.9 million animals have been prepared for the qurbani festival.
According to statistics from the divisional livestock department, the estimated demand for livestock this year stands at 10.7 million. After meeting the demand, a surplus of almost 2.28 million livestock is expected.
“We have no shortage of livestock to meet the demand for the upcoming Eid as the country has an additional 2.28 million animals after fulfilling the qurbani demand,” stated Dr. ABM Khaleduzzaman, Director (Production) of the Department of Livestock Services (DLS).
The annual demand for sacrificial animals is usually calculated by adding five percent to the number of animals slaughtered the previous year. This year’s demand stands at 10.7 million for the qurbani.
Of the sacrificial animals, 5.268 million are cows, 160,000 are buffaloes, 6.85 million are goats, 767,000 are sheep, and 1,850 are other species ready for qurbani during Eid-ul-Adha, the second largest festival for Muslims worldwide.
“The price depends on demand and supply. Since we have made the statistics through surveys, there won’t be much difference between demand and supply. It seems that the prices will remain stable,” Khaleduzzaman said.
“Necessary steps will be taken to ensure the safety of the market. There will be close monitoring at all levels until the end of Eid-ul-Adha,” he added. He also expressed hope that the qurbani market will foster a friendly environment for both buyers and sellers.
DLS officials also mentioned that permanent veterinary doctors and mobile veterinary teams will operate at cattle markets nationwide, including both permanent and temporary markets in the capital under the north and south city corporation areas.
Additionally, DLS officials stated that farmers would not face taxation for selling animals from their homes this year and would not be coerced into selling animals on the streets if they preferred distant markets. Law enforcement agencies, local government bodies, and municipal authorities will be vigilant to prevent any extortion attempts.
The minister advised farmers to use digital payments to avoid carrying cash. Similar to last year, online sales of sacrificial animals will continue nationwide, benefiting both buyers and sellers.
