SRINAGAR: As the Islamic festival of Eid-ul-Adha approaches, traders have begun transporting camels from Rajasthan to markets across Kashmir, catering to a segment of the population opting for camel sacrifice during the observance.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that these camels, not native to the region, are being offered for sale in Budgam and other districts of the Kashmir Valley in anticipation of Eid-ul-Adha, also known as Bakra-Eid, which is scheduled for observance on May 27.
Temporary sales points have been established in various areas, drawing the attention of potential buyers preparing for the annual religious festival. The practice of sacrificing camels is undertaken by some residents who prefer them due to the Islamic tradition allowing up to seven individuals to jointly participate in the sacrifice of a single camel or cow. This shared financial contribution is often cited as a reason for choosing camels over sheep or goats, which are typically sacrificed for one person.
Camel traders report that while sheep and goats generally range from Rs 10,000 to Rs 30,000 or more in Kashmir, depending on their breed and condition, camels are being sold at prices between Rs 60,000 and Rs 75,000. Hilal Ahmad, a camel trader from Budgam, noted that the practice of camel sacrifice has seen a gradual increase in recent years. He attributed this to the shared participation aspect and specific religious preferences linked to the consumption of camel meat, although he acknowledged that only a limited number of buyers opt for this option.
Despite the growing interest in camel sacrifices, sheep and goats continue to be the primary animals selected for sacrifice across Kashmir during Eid-ul-Adha. Livestock markets throughout the Valley have experienced increased activity in the days leading up to the festival, with residents actively purchasing animals for the occasion.
In previous years, officials from the Animal Husbandry Department have issued advisories to traders and buyers, emphasizing the importance of adhering to transport regulations, obtaining veterinary health certificates, and ensuring the proper care of animals during transportation and sale. Authorities have also stressed the need to follow municipal and animal welfare guidelines pertaining to slaughter activities during the Eid period.
The trade and slaughter of camels within Jammu and Kashmir have previously faced regulatory scrutiny concerning provisions and animal welfare standards. Nevertheless, traders continue to bring a limited number of camels into the Valley annually in preparation for Eid-ul-Adha, meeting a specific demand among some sections of the population.
The Chenab Times News Desk