Eid-ul-Adha is on the horizon and livestock farmers across Khulna are in full swing preparing sacrificial animals amid market uncertainty.
This year, the supply has already exceeded local demand by 6,778 animals, highlighting both the region’s readiness and lingering concerns over market dynamics, reports UNB.
According to the Department of Livestock Services, a total of 1,63,063 sacrificial animals have been prepared in Khulna’s nine upazilas and metropolitan areas. This number surpasses the projected demand of 1,56,285. While this indicates a well-prepared livestock sector, the surplus has notably decreased compared to last year, when 1,56,278 animals were available against a demand of 1,34,443—leaving a surplus of 21,835.
Political Change Linked to Shrinking Surplus
Stakeholders have attributed this decline in surplus to political changes that took place after August 5 of last year. According to sources, many investors with affiliations to the previous ruling party pulled out of the livestock business following the shift in power, causing the shutdown of several commercial farms across the region.
Despite this, livestock officials remain optimistic. They say that in the event of an unforeseen shortfall, support from neighbouring districts would help bridge the gap.
Grassroots Still Leading Production
Most of the prepared animals have come from grassroots farms and individual households, which collectively raised 1,36,063 animals. The breakdown includes 42,393 bulls, 12,040 oxen, 14,505 cows, 246 buffaloes, 79,583 goats, 14,202 sheep, and 62 other animals.
Despite uncertainties, some farms are attracting buyers with high-quality animals. Kamal Hossain Sujan, manager of Bismillah Agro Farm in Gutudiar of Dumuria upazila, said their bulls and oxen are raised on balanced feed and without artificial enhancers. The farm currently houses 67 bulls, with prices ranging from Tk 60,000 to Tk 600,000.
As Eid-ul-Adha draws closer, the region’s farmers remain hopeful that both the quantity and quality of their offerings will ensure a successful season, despite the looming challenges.