Dhaka: Fisheries, Livestock, and Agriculture Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid announced that more than 1.24 crore sacrificial animals are prepared for qurbani during the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha. This declaration was made at a press conference held in the ministry.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister confirmed that no sacrificial animals will be imported for Eid-ul-Azha this year, continuing the policy from last year. As a result, the leasing of border hats has been suspended. The press conference was also attended by State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku and Secretary of the Ministry Delwar Hossen.
The minister stated that over 3,600 cattle markets will be established nationwide, including 27 in Dhaka city. Of these, 16 markets will be managed by the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and 11 by the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC). He emphasized that cattle markets in Dhaka will be confined to designated areas to prevent traffic disruptions.
Aminur Rashid highlighted that the Department of Livestock Services (DLS) strictly prohibits the import of cow fattening injections or steroids. However, he warned that some traders might attempt to acquire these illegal substances, and the DLS is set to conduct nationwide operations to confiscate and destroy them.
The minister assured that there will be no tax or levy (hassil) for purchasing animals online, with hassil applicable only for direct purchases from markets. Veterinary teams, supervised by the DLS, will be present at every market to provide emergency medical services to animals.
Aminur Rashid expressed confidence in the adequate stock of sacrificial animals, suggesting that prices will remain affordable. He also mentioned that the government has implemented strict measures to prevent extortion at animal markets and during the transportation of animals, with instructions issued to law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance.