Jashore Cattle Farms: Huge Sacrificial Animals, Fewer Buyers

Although more than enough sacrificial animals are ready in their farms for the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha, farmers in Jashore are worried that they may find the money they have invested in cattle breeding, as the Covid-19 pandemic has clouded the prospect of their selling.

Officials at the Department of Livestock Services (DLS), Jashore said that some 67,975 sacrificial animals are ready for use in 10,282 farms against a demand of 60,500.

There will be no shortage, as there are 7,500 more animals against the demand, they said.

This year, 24 cattle markets will be set up in different parts of the district, in line with the government 's health guidelines.

Some local cattle traders have claimed that they have been rearing their animals during the year, spending huge money so that they can make some profit throughout the Eid.

Traders, mainly from Barishal, Noakhali, Bhola and Khulna, typically throng cattle farms in the district two months ahead of Eid for the purchase of cattle, but this year the scenario is very specific due to coronavirus, said farmers.

Eid-ul-Azha is only a few weeks away but traders from other districts are yet to come here, they said.

Mohabbat Hossain, a cattle farmer from Raipur in Bagharpara Upazila, said, "With 120 cows in stock, I expect 80 of them to be sold, but this time the condition has changed. My fear is that I might have to count losses in every cow for lack of traders.

Raju, another farmer of the area, said, “I usually rear 15-20 cows each year for Eid but this year I’ve eight cows for selling but I’m worried about having a fair price.”

Shaheen Alam, the owner of Dafadar Dairy Farm in Muragacha Village in Manirampur Upazila, said, "There are 50 bulls on my farm and prices range from Tk 50,000 to Tk 80,000. No dealer from other districts is calling me this year. I'm a bit concerned about the situation.

Asmat Ali Gyne, another farmer from Manirampur Upazila, well known for his two big cows—'Banglar Boss' and 'Banglar Samrat'—, said, "I expect to sell the two big cows at Tk 80 lakh. In fact, there are eight more cows left on my farm for sale.

“I’ve not yet seen any retail traders though Eid-ul-Azha is getting closer. I’m also worried about bank loan I’ve taken for rearing cows,” he said.

Shafiul Alam, a livestock official at District DLS, said, "This time, there is no lack of sacrificial animals. The auction of cattle normally starts 10-12 days ahead of Eid-ul-Azha. I hope there's ample time out there. Farmers here are anxious to get back the money they lost on growing their cows because of the pandemic.

He, however, said necessary steps will be taken to ensure social distancing in the cattle markets.

Source: UNB