Announcement of Haj Policy 2025 in Pakistan

The government of Pakistan has introduced the Haj Policy 2025 with a range of new initiatives to improve the experience for Hajj pilgrims. Under the new policy, key changes are made to support the welfare, safety, and overall convenience of pilgrims as they embark on this sacred journey.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, presiding over a recent cabinet meeting, highlighted the importance of these measures in enhancing the Hajj experience.

New Nazim Role to Support Pilgrims

To provide on-ground assistance, a new position known as ‘Nazim’ has been introduced. One Nazim will be appointed for every 100 pilgrims, selected from the welfare staff, to ensure effective support. This role is expected to be instrumental in providing guidance and assistance to pilgrims throughout their journey.

Special Allocations for Hardship Cases and Low-Income Workers

The policy reserves 1,000 seats for hardship cases and 300 seats specifically for laborers and low-income employees who are registered under the Employees Old-Age Benefit Institution or Workers Welfare Fund.

This allocation aims to provide access to Hajj for individuals who may otherwise face financial or logistical obstacles.

Computerized Balloting for Pilgrim Selection

The selection of pilgrims under the government scheme will be conducted through a computerized balloting system to ensure fairness. The cabinet has advised that preference be given to applicants who were unsuccessful in the previous year’s balloting process.

Road-to-Makkah Facility and Hajj Management App

To further facilitate the Hajj experience:

• Road-to-Makkah Facility: This special facility will be available at Islamabad and Karachi airports, expediting the immigration process for pilgrims.
• Hajj Management App: A dedicated app has been developed to assist pilgrims with real-time information and resources. The app will also provide access to training materials, ensuring that pilgrims are well-prepared for their journey.

Service Agreements with Hajj Group Organizers

The Hajj policy mandates that all Hajj group organizers sign a service provider agreement with the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

The ministry will strictly monitor these agreements to ensure that organizers deliver services as promised, safeguarding the interests and well-being of the pilgrims.

Increased Compensation for Deceased and Injured Pilgrims

Under the new Haj policy 2025, the compensation for the heirs of deceased pilgrims has been increased from Rs 1 million to Rs 2 million, while injured pilgrims will receive up to Rs 1 million.

Cabinet Approvals for Additional Appointments and Agreements

The cabinet meeting, apart from discussing the Hajj policy, also approved several other measures:

• Appointments: Saeed Iqbal, Moazzam Ahmed, Madiha Khalid, Usman Haider, and Muhammad Sajjad Farouqui were appointed as private members of the Public-Private Partnership Authority’s board.
• Jammu and Kashmir Estate Property Budget: The budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 was approved.
• Shipping Certification Agreement: An agreement was endorsed between the Directorate General of Ports and Shipping Karachi and the Bahria Classification Society for ship classification certifications.

Economic Stability Measures and Policy Rate Reduction

The cabinet meeting also highlighted recent economic stability efforts:

• Haj Policy 2025 Rate Reduction: Prime Minister Shehbaz praised the reduction in the haj policy 2025 rate by the State Bank of Pakistan from 22% to 15%. This reduction is expected to boost the business, agriculture, export, and commerce sectors, as well as reduce the country’s debt burden by Rs1.3 trillion, creating fiscal space.
• Pakistan-Saudi Cooperation: Following the prime minister’s recent visit to Saudi Arabia, discussions have begun on collaboration in areas such as mining, minerals, solar energy, and IT workforce development.
• Upcoming Bilateral Agreements: The Azerbaijan government has signaled interest in $2 billion worth of MoUs, providing new avenues for economic cooperation.

Potential Power Relief Package

The prime minister hinted at a potential power relief package for the winter season, aiming to provide relief to both the general public and business owners. He emphasized the importance of continued efforts to revive the economy and improve employment opportunities.

Conclusion

The Haj Policy 2025 represents a comprehensive approach to facilitating and safeguarding Pakistani pilgrims, enhancing their overall experience. With these updates and broader economic measures, the government aims to provide a supportive and secure environment, not only for Hajj pilgrims but for all citizens contributing to national development.