Staff Reporter :
Bangladesh is poised to meet the demand for sacrificial animals during the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha, scheduled for the first week of next month, with a reported surplus of over 2.07 million animals, according to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock.
Official data indicates that an estimated 12.8 million animals will be available for sacrifice this year, comprising approximately 5.6 million cattle and buffaloes, 6.8 million goats and sheep, and over 5,500 animals from other species.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Farida Akhter, Adviser to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, confirmed that there will be no need to import livestock this year, citing the current surplus. “We have a surplus of 2.07 million animals, ensuring sufficient supply to meet festival demand,” she stated.
Ms Akhter also highlighted the government’s commitment to safeguarding animal health and welfare. Ongoing training programmes are being conducted to discourage farmers from using harmful fattening agents such as steroids and hormones.
Md Tofazzel Hossain, Secretary (Routine Duty) of the ministry, expressed confidence in a stable and well-regulated Qurbani market. “Prices are largely determined by supply and demand. Based on our latest survey, we expect a minimal gap between the two, which should contribute to price stability,” he said. He further assured that necessary regulatory measures will be enforced to maintain the safety and integrity of livestock markets.
The ministry is actively working to improve the overall quality of livestock through several development initiatives. The Department of Livestock Services continues to support farmers at the grassroots level and monitors the implementation of these programmes closely.
A significant transformation in cattle production is underway, supported by government efforts including the distribution of free female calves (bakna) to farmers and underprivileged communities. More than 100,000 free calves have been distributed across districts such as Lakshmipur, Faridpur, Noakhali, Sirajganj, Jhalokati, Narayanganj, and Rajshahi.
Since the launch of these efforts, the ministry has invested over Tk 10,000 crore in 8 to 10 key livestock development projects, signalling a long-term commitment to strengthening the sector
