Ahead of the upcoming holy Eid-ul-Adha, the District Livestock Office has reported an adequate stock of sacrificial animals in Rajshahi.
According to official data, the total number of animals fit for sacrifice in the district this year stands at 463,011, against an estimated demand of 371,058. As a result, the district has a surplus of around 91,953 animals. Officials said there is no risk of a shortage of sacrificial animals during Eid under the current circumstances. Sources at the District Livestock Office said the animals prepared for sacrifice include 104,841 cows, 3,425 buffaloes, 311,339 goats and 43,406 sheep. Goats account for the highest number of sacrificial animals, followed by cows, sheep and buffaloes. In recent years, strict surveillance by the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) along the border has stopped the entry of Indian cattle, encouraging local farmers to expand livestock farming. Currently, cattle and goat rearing is being carried out at both household and commercial levels across almost all districts of the Rajshahi division, with many new farms being established. As a result, dependence on animals from outside the region has declined significantly, creating more employment opportunities. Talking to farmers, it was learned that they have been preparing for months ahead of Eid by fattening, caring for and marketing their animals. Farmers also said greater emphasis has been placed this year on raising animals through natural methods.
Abdul Kader, a farmer from Paba upazila in Rajshahi, said, “We started preparations early this time. We raised the animals using local methods. Production costs have also increased, so we expect to get fair prices in the market.” Another farmer, Bappi Islam, said, “Now we raise animals at home on a small farm-like scale. We planned six months ago with the sacrificial market in mind. I have six bulls this year. The high price of cattle feed was a concern, but I hope to get a good price.” Selina Begum, a farmer from Mohanpur upazila, said, “There is higher demand for smaller animals in the market. So, along with cows, I also raised goats and sheep.
I have two cows and seven goats ready for sacrifice.”
