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The country is well-prepared for the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha, with over 20.68 lakh surplus sacrificial animals available beyond the estimated national demand, eliminating the need for livestock imports this year.
According to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, more than 1.28 crore animals will be ready for sacrifice, including 56.02 lakh cattle and buffaloes, 68.38 lakh goats and sheep, and over 5,500 animals from other species.
“There is no shortage of animals this year,” said Farida Akhter, Adviser to the Ministry, at a recent press conference. “We have more than enough livestock to meet the demand, and measures are in place to ensure animal health and safety.”
To curb unethical fattening practices, the government has been training farmers to avoid harmful substances like steroids and hormones. Field-level officials from the Department of Livestock Services are actively monitoring farms and assisting farmers with best practices.
Md Tofazzel Hossain, Secretary (Routine Duty) of the ministry, said that based on current supply and demand data, the Qurbani market is expected to remain stable. “The statistics were gathered through comprehensive surveys, so we expect balanced pricing,” he added.
The ministry has also undertaken several projects to improve livestock production, including the distribution of over one lakh free bakna calves to farmers and marginalized families in areas like Lakshmipur, Faridpur, Noakhali, Sirajganj, Jhalokati, Narayanganj, and Rajshahi.
To date, more than Tk 10,000 crore has been invested in 8 to 10 projects aimed at boosting livestock quality and self-sufficiency, leading to what officials are calling a “silent revolution” in cattle production across Bangladesh.
