Eid-ul-Adha in Pakistan: Soaring Livestock Prices Spark Concerns as Digital Payment Drive Gains Momentum

KARACHI:As Muslims across the world prepare to commemorate **Eid-ul-Adha** by sacrificing animals in line with the **Sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (AS)**, Pakistanis are facing increasing challenges due to **skyrocketing livestock prices** and **crushing inflation**.

In the weeks leading up to Eid, **cattle markets** are traditionally set up nationwide to allow citizens to purchase animals for sacrifice. However, this year, the situation has drastically changed. **High inflation and reduced purchasing power** have kept many buyers away from these markets, while **prices of animals have nearly doubled**, compared to previous years.

> “Last year we bought cows for what goats are costing this year,” lamented a buyer at a Karachi cattle market.
> “Even chickens are being considered for sacrifice — that’s how desperate things have become,” another joked, reflecting a sentiment echoed across social media platforms.

Veteran actor **Nauman Ijaz** expressed his frustration with the situation in a humorous Instagram story:

> *“At this rate, if you place a chicken in the cattle market, someone will quote a price of one lakh rupees for it!”*

Meanwhile, **Ali Zaidi**, senior leader of **Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)** and former federal minister, criticized the evolving culture of Eid sacrifices.

> *“What used to be a humble act of worship has turned into a show of ego,”* he wrote.
> *“The bigger the animal, the bigger the pride. This isn’t Eid anymore; it’s a spectacle.”*

### Digital Transformation of Cattle Markets

In response to the growing security and convenience concerns, the **State Bank of Pakistan (SBP)** has launched a **“Go Cashless” campaign** ahead of Eid-ul-Adha. The initiative aims to promote **digital payments** in 54 cattle markets across the country.

From **May 20 to June 16**, buyers and sellers can now benefit from **enhanced digital transaction limits and facilities**. Traders can pay for essentials such as **fodder, water, and parking** digitally, while customers are encouraged to use **QR codes and mobile banking apps** instead of carrying large sums of cash.

The initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce the risk of theft, improve transaction transparency, and modernize the livestock trade ecosystem.

### Sacrifice Amid Struggle

Despite these innovations, the **spirit of sacrifice** risks being overshadowed by **economic hardship and social spectacle**. Religious scholars continue to remind the public that **Eid-ul-Adha is about humility, devotion, and charity**, not extravagance.

As one citizen put it:

> *“True sacrifice lies not in the size of the animal, but in the sincerity of the heart.”*

With **Eid expected in mid-June**, all eyes remain on how both the markets and the people adapt to the dual challenges of **financial strain and evolving digital norms**.