Livestock farmers in Feni are working hard to prepare cattle for the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha, hoping to earn fair prices in the sacrificial animal market.
Despite rising costs of cattle feed, veterinary medicines, and electricity, farmers are pushing through the final weeks before Eid, which is now less than a month away. However, many are worried that high feed prices and possible cattle smuggling from neighboring countries could hurt their profits.
Md Ibrahim, owner of Madina Agro in Fulgazi, said his farm has around 200 cows this year, despite losses during last year’s floods. “Feed costs have gone up a lot. If border smuggling is stopped, local farmers could finally make a profit,” he said.
According to the District Livestock Department, there is a surplus of animals this year. The demand for Eid is 82,336, while 87,227 animals have already been prepared. This includes: 69,360 cows, 1,667 buffaloes, 13,243 goats, 3,147 sheep. Last year, demand was slightly higher at 87,200, with 90,250 animals ready. Both buyers and sellers fear that higher prices might affect sales this season.
Eid is expected to be celebrated on 7th June, 2025.