Srinagar, May 31 -- Economic downturn has hit the sale of sacrificial animals in Kashmir

As Eid-ul-Azha draws near, the sacrificial animal markets are witnessing far fewer customers compared to the same period last year.

Sellers, who had stocked sheep, goats, and cattle in anticipation of brisk business, now sit anxiously beside their animals, waiting for buyers who are either hesitant or absent. "Last year by this time, most of my goats were already booked. This year, I haven't even sold half," said Imtiyaz Ahmad, a livestock trader from Pulwama.

According to many traders, the market is showing clear signs of economic fatigue. "There is a definite slump. People are prioritising essentials and daily survival over big Eid purchases," sa...