Country has over 20.68 lakh surplus livestock against the Eid demand

With Eid-ul-Azha just weeks away, Bangladesh is well-prepared to meet the demand for sacrificial animals, boasting a surplus of over 20.68 lakh livestock. According to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, an estimated 1.28 crore animals will be available this year for Qurbani, including more than 56 lakh cattle and buffalo, over 68 lakh goats and sheep, and a small number of other species.

Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter confirmed at a recent press briefing that, for yet another year, the country will not need to import livestock to meet Eid demand. “We are self-sufficient,” she stated, highlighting the surplus as a reflection of the success of recent livestock development efforts.

As part of the government‍‍`s measures to ensure the health and quality of sacrificial animals, farmers are being trained to avoid harmful fattening methods involving steroids or hormones. These initiatives aim to maintain consumer confidence and animal welfare standards during the festive season.

Md Tofazzel Hossain, Secretary (Routine Duty) of the Ministry, said that supply-demand equilibrium suggests stable prices in this year’s Qurbani market. “Our data-driven planning indicates minimal fluctuation in price,” he added, noting that authorities will implement safety and quality control measures to ensure a secure market environment.

Officials from the Department of Livestock Services are actively assisting farmers at the grassroots level, providing guidance and oversight. One key factor behind this success is the government’s ongoing livestock development projects. Over the past few years, more than Tk 10,000 crore has been invested in around 8 to 10 projects to enhance the quality and quantity of local livestock.

A highlight of these efforts is the distribution of over 100,000 free bakna (female) calves to marginalised farmers and families across regions such as Lakshmipur, Faridpur, Noakhali, Sirajganj, Jhalokathi, Narayanganj, and Rajshahi. This initiative, officials say, has led to a “silent revolution” in the country’s cattle production.

With strong supply, government oversight, and enhanced livestock quality, this year’s Eid-ul-Azha market is expected to be both stable and satisfying for buyers and sellers alike.