MUMBAI, June 6 -- The state government has halved the animal slaughter inspection fee from Rs.200 to Rs.100 per animal at 13 slaughterhouses in the state. The decision, led by deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar and supported by animal husbandry minister Pankaja Munde, follows lobbying by Samajwadi Party MLA Rais Shaikh. Shaikh met with top state officials in April, raised concerns over steep inspection charges required for veterinary certification prior to animal slaughter, urging a return to the earlier fee of Rs.20. "This will ease the burden on livestock breeders, meat traders and consumers, especially ahead of Bakra Eid, and will remain effective even after the festival," said Shaikh. Since the fee was raised to Rs.200 from Rs.20 in May 2022, stakeholders in the meat business have been demanding a reduction in the fee. The state government is also expected to reduce it to Rs.20 for three days during Eid. "The department will reduce it to Rs.20 per animal for the three days of Eid. The order is expected to be issued on Friday. It's been the practice every year during Eid for the last three years," said an animal husbandry official. The Qureshi Human Welfare Association had petitioned the Bombay High Court, arguing that the high fee had driven up meat prices. The state, contributing 11% to India's total meat production, is expected to see broader economic relief from the fee reduction....