Ban on horses takes the shine off Pushkar mela

The internationally known Pushkar Fair, one of the biggest events in the world for cattle trade, ended up on a disappointing note this year. The number of cattle participated and traded in the fair reduced by half as against last year.

The sharp drop in the trade has been attributed to the ban on trading of horses at the market following a spurt in cases of Glanders diseases this time.

According to a report released by the Animal Husbandry Department, 4,200 animals of different species reached the market this time. The number was 8,700 last year.

Cattle trade related figures have also seen a huge drop this time. Last year, 2,558 cattle in the fair were traded and total business of worth Rs 7.06 crore was done. This time, 827 cattle were sold for Rs.1.72 crore.

Behind the less number of cattle arrival in the fair and decline in trade, the department believes that the figures on horses have not been captured this time.

"The negative impact of horse infectious disease has been observed on the fair this year. Due to a spurt of Glanders disease, arrival and trade of horses in the fair was banned. The ban has left its effect on the trade figures," Subhendu Dixit, senior veterinary officer told DNA.

This year, the most expensive animal was a buffalo that was sold at Rs 70,000, while the most expensive camel has been sold for Rs 51,000.

BUSINESS HAMPERED

Year Cattle arrived Cattle traded Turnover
2017 4,200 827 Rs 1.72 crore
2016 8,700 2,558 Rs 7.06 crore