Animal Sacrifices Drop from 10 Million in 2022 to 6.5 Million Amid Rising Inflation
Lahore (Qudrat Daily) – The number of animals sacrificed during Eid-ul-Adha in Pakistan has reportedly declined sharply, falling from 10 million in 2022 to around 6.5 million, according to economic experts.
Renowned economist Dr. Farrukh Saleem revealed that Pakistan has witnessed a continuous decline in the number of sacrificial animals over the past few years. Supporting this claim, economist Dr. Shahida Wizarat also noted that rising inflation has made it difficult even for higher-income individuals to afford animal sacrifice.
She stated that the ongoing inflationary pressure in the country has significantly reduced purchasing power, resulting in fewer sacrifices being performed this year.
Meanwhile, reports from various media outlets indicate that although animal markets witnessed heavy crowds ahead of Eid-ul-Adha, extremely high prices forced many potential buyers to return empty-handed.
Livestock traders brought animals from Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Kashmir, but prices remained exceptionally high. Goats were reportedly being sold for up to Rs100,000, sheep ranged between Rs100,000 to Rs300,000, while local goats were priced around Rs200,000. Cows were being sold for up to Rs200,000, and bulls ranged from Rs300,000 to Rs1 million.
Citizens expressed concern over soaring prices, with many opting not to purchase animals. Compared to last year, prices of goats, sheep, and large animals were reportedly up by nearly 50 percent. The cost of participating in collective sacrifice arrangements ranged from Rs32,000 to Rs40,000 per share.
As a result, for a large number of citizens, the hope of performing Qurbani was reportedly diminished due to the ongoing inflation crisis.
