Cattle supply outpaces Eid demand by 2.3m
MoFL Minister says no need to import sacrificial animals this year
FE REPORT | Friday, 17 May 2024
Some 12.98 million cattle are available this year, exceeding the maximum projected demand of 10.7 million, for Eid-ul-Azha -- the feast of sacrifice to be celebrated in the third week of June.
The livestock includes 5.27 million cows, 0.161 million buffaloes, 6.85 million goats, 0.77 million sheep and 1,850 other animals, said Fisheries and Livestock Minister Abdur Rahman.
During an inter-ministerial meeting at the Department of Livestock Services on the demand and supply of sacrificial animals on Thursday afternoon, the minister said there is no need to import sacrificial animals as there is an excess supply.
He said this year's supply represents a 3 per cent increase over last year's.
The meeting also talked about measures to ensure the smooth transport of sacrificial animals from districts to Dhaka.
Similar to last year, farmers selling animals directly from their homes will be exempt from taxes, said Minister Abdur Rahman.
He said law enforcement agencies, along with local government units like municipalities, upazilas, union parishads and city corporations, will provide all necessary assistance during cattle transport.
The minister said if a seller decides to sell an animal while on their way to the market, the potential buyer must not be pressed for market fees, known as 'Hasil'.
He encouraged the use of digital platforms for financial transactions related to buying and selling sacrificial animals, rather than cash.
A nationwide online platform for selling sacrificial cattles will be available again this year, similar to last year, said the minister.
In response to concerns about cattle being smuggled in ahead of Eid, the minister assured there is no risk due to the country's surplus supply of animals. Border surveillance has been increased to prevent the smuggling of animal hides.
Mr Rahman also said all necessary steps have been taken to prevent harassment during the transportation of animals. Each market will have a police team present to offer assistance.