Sacrifice under strain - Kashmiris cut back livestock purchases as inflation, fuel prices dampen Eid festivities

"Traders and customers in Srinagar on Monday said an increase in the prices of sacrificial animals fuelled by the US-Iran conflict, had dampened sales ahead of the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha. Since transportation in the Indian part of Kashmir largely depends on road networks, the increase in diesel and petrol costs due to the conflict has raised the operational cost. "Sellers are charging different rates, mainly due to the continuous rise in fuel prices," Mehraj Din complained. "We are now searching for the best prices so that we can perform this year's sacrificial ritual with sincerity, devotion, and gratitude." Livestock markets across Jammu and Kashmir are crowded with customers bargaining for suitable animals. Yet many buyers are leaving the markets disappointed after hearing the prices. Sheep and goats that were affordable a few years ago now cost significantly more, placing financial pressure on middle-class and low-income families. Another customer, Kaleem Ahmad, came to the livestock market with the intention of buying at least two sheep, but the prices left him astounded. Traders argue that higher prices are due to increases in transportation, animal feed, and maintenance costs, which have all risen simultaneously. In many cases, the cost of moving livestock has nearly doubled compared to previous years, traders said. "Business has declined by nearly 50 per cent, and buyers are not in the mood to purchase sacrificial animals, with only a few making purchases this year," a trader, Adil Fayaz, said. He added: "The main reason behind the rise in prices of sacrificial animals is the West Asia crisis, which has led to an increase in fuel prices. As a result, the transportation of these animals has become more expensive." Eid al-Adha, the 'Eid of Sacrifice', commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his willingness to sacrifice his son to God - before God provided a ram in his place. It is marked by the ritual sacrifice of a sheep, goat or cow, with the meat divided between family, friends and those in need."

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