1.53 Lakh Sheep Transported To Kashmir In 30 Days

Srinagar — Over 1.53 lakh sheep have been transported to Kashmir from various states in the past 30 days ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, officials confirmed on Friday.

The transportation of livestock from states including Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh is an annual exercise that peaks in the weeks leading up to Eid. This year, however, the operation was marked by higher prices due to increased transportation costs linked to rising fuel prices.

Traders said the average price of a sheep has risen by 15-20 per cent compared to last year, with a good-quality animal now costing between Rs 12,000 and Rs 25,000 depending on size and breed.

The Animal Husbandry Department said all animals were checked at border checkpoints for health certificates and disease markers. "We have ensured that only healthy animals with proper documentation are allowed into the valley," a department official said.

Temporary markets were set up in multiple locations across the valley, with the largest ones in Srinagar's Parimpora, Bemina and Lal Chowk areas. Officials said the demand-supply balance was largely maintained this year, preventing any severe price spikes.

Local breeders have also contributed to the supply, with Kashmir's own livestock sector providing an estimated 30 per cent of the total demand for the festival.