Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid spoke to the reporters after inspecting the Neura cattle market in Cumilla today. Photo: Ministry

CUMILLA, May 26, 2026 (BSS) - Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid today said rearing of sacrificial animals for Eid-ul-Azha is a major income sources for the marginal farmers and ranchers across the country.

The minister made the remarks while speaking to the reporters after inspecting the Neura cattle market at Cumilla Sadar Dakshin upazila ahead of the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha.

"Millions of families benefit financially from rearing and selling sacrificial animals, transforming this into a major industry-driven economic activity," the minister said.

Highlighting the scale of the event, he noted that the massive number of animals sacrificed annually in Bangladesh makes it one of the largest such congregations globally. Marginal farmers spend one to two years raising cattle, goats, sheep and buffaloes in anticipation of this season, making the occasion a vital economic lifeline for them, he added.

The minister emphasized that the government has been actively supporting these farmers by providing training, financial aid and specialized initiatives to boost farm-based production. These measures have catalyzed a rise in commercial livestock farming, injecting dynamism into the country’s agrarian economy, said the minister. 

Responding to queries regarding security, health services and overall market management, the minister assured that the administration, law enforcement, and the Department of Livestock Services are working in close coordination to monitor markets nationwide.

"Dedicated veterinary teams have been deployed to every market to conduct health screenings, provide treatment and supply medicines for the animals. Livestock officials remain on the ground to assist both buyers and sellers," he said.

Addressing concerns over extortion or mismanagement, the minister confirmed that no major complaints have been recorded so far, adding that law enforcers remain on high alert. Fake note detection booths have also been set up across major markets to prevent fraudulent transactions, he said. 

The minister reiterated that market supervision will continue until the eve of Eid to ensure a hassle-free and secure trading environment.

Cumilla City Corporation Administrator Md. Yusuf Molla Tipu, District Livestock Officer Md.  Samsul Alam, Sadar Dakshin Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sujan Chandra Roy and Upazila Livestock Officer Dr. Md. Mahe Alam, along with local political leaders, were present during the visit.