In a recent meeting chaired by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, the federal cabinet approved the Hajj Policy for 2025.
The cabinet announced that, under the new policy, children under the age of 12 will not be permitted to perform Hajj.
Under the approved policy, Pakistan’s Hajj quota for 2025 has been set at 210,179, with a 50:50 division between government and private sectors.
The government’s quota allocation will be determined through a computerized ballot, with 1,000 spots reserved for hardship cases.
Additionally, 300 seats have been allocated specifically for low-income workers registered with the Workers Welfare Fund and Employees Old-Age Benefits Institution.
To streamline and enhance the pilgrimage experience, the “Road to Makkah” service will be available at Islamabad and Karachi international airports, expediting the immigration process for departing pilgrims.
Hajj Group Organizers (HGOs) will sign a service agreement with the Ministry of Religious Affairs, and stringent monitoring will be in place to ensure quality service delivery.
In a bid to improve support for pilgrims, a new role, the “Nazim,” has been introduced. Each Nazim will be responsible for 100 pilgrims and selected from the welfare staff to oversee on-ground support and address immediate needs.
The cabinet also announced increased compensation for casualties during Hajj, with PKR 2 million allocated for families of deceased pilgrims and PKR 1 million for injured individuals.
The ministry is also launching a Hajj Management Application, which will provide pilgrims with essential information and support throughout their journey. Special training arrangements are in place to help first-time Hajj participants better understand the pilgrimage rituals and requirements.
The cabinet emphasized prioritizing first-time applicants in the Hajj ballot and instructed all departments to ensure the highest quality of service for pilgrims.
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