Livestock minister highlights economic impact of Eid cattle trade

Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid on Tuesday said livestock farming ahead of Eid-ul-Azha has become a major source of income for marginal farmers and cattle ranchers across Bangladesh.

The minister made the remarks after visiting the Neura Cattle Market in Cumilla Sadar Dakshin Upazila of Cumilla to review preparations and market conditions ahead of the upcoming Eid festival.

He said millions of families across the country rely on the rearing and sale of sacrificial animals as an important seasonal economic activity. According to him, many farmers spend one to two years raising cattle, goats, sheep and buffaloes specifically for Eid-ul-Azha, making the occasion financially significant for rural communities.

The minister noted that the large-scale sacrifice of animals during Eid has turned livestock farming into a major industry-based economic sector in Bangladesh. He added that the growth of commercial farming has brought new momentum to the country’s rural economy.

Highlighting government initiatives, the minister said authorities have been providing training, financial support and other assistance to livestock farmers to boost production and improve farm management practices.

Responding to questions about market management and security, he said law enforcement agencies, local administration officials and the Department of Livestock Services are jointly monitoring cattle markets nationwide to ensure smooth trading activities.

He also said veterinary teams have been deployed at markets to conduct health checks, provide treatment and offer medicines for animals if needed. Livestock officials are working on-site to assist both buyers and sellers during the busy trading period.

The minister further said no major complaints regarding extortion or market irregularities had been reported so far. To prevent fraudulent transactions, counterfeit currency detection booths have also been installed at major cattle markets.

He assured that government monitoring and supervision would continue until the eve of Eid to maintain a safe and hassle-free environment for traders and buyers.

Several local officials, livestock department representatives and political leaders accompanied the minister during the market visit.