India, May 25 -- As Bakrid, or Eid-ul-Adha, approaches on May 28, goat prices have surged across Pune and nearby livestock markets, leaving many middle-class Muslim families struggling to afford sacrificial animals this year.

Traders across major goat markets in Camp, Kondhwa, Kausarbaug, Bhavani Peth, Yerawada and Hadapsar said prices have risen by around 20% to 40% compared to last year, depending on breed and size.

Small goats that sold for Rs.10,000- Rs.12,000 last year are now priced at Rs.15,000 and above. Medium-sized goats, which earlier ranged between Rs.18,000 and Rs.25,000, are now being sold for Rs.30,000- Rs.50,000. Premium breeds that were available in the Rs.70,000- Rs.1.5 lakh range last year are now fetching Rs.1 lakh t...