Also approves the introduction of a Shariah-compliant Haj savings scheme to help citizens bear the cost of the ritual
Islamabad
The federal cabinet on Tuesday approved the “first-ever” four-year Haj policy and plan, instructing authorities to complete digitisation of the operation to ensure “better” facilities for pilgrims, state-broadcaster Radio Pakistan reported.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired the meeting of the federal cabinet today, where the participants were given a detailed briefing on the latest long-term Haj policy.
The cabinet members were told that the new policy was designed to improve operations and provide better facilities to pilgrims, and standard operating procedures and other regulatory frameworks would be developed for its implementation. Furthermore, amendments would be made to it, as needed, to keep it aligned with Saudi laws and regulations.
To ensure affordability, the cabinet also approved the introduction of a Shariah-compliant savings scheme to enable aspiring pilgrims to benefit from a savings plan for performing Haj in the future.
The meeting was apprised that under the latest policy, aspiring pilgrims would be able to register for Haj in any year up to 2030, allowing the ministry to prepare a priority waiting list.
The cabinet members were further informed that the entire Haj management system was being digitised to support online payment mechanisms, with the introduction of complaint management and monitoring systems as well.
Under the newly approved policy, the cabinet was told that separate quotas were allocated for government and private Haj schemes, including options for a long and short stay.
The policy also mandated training for pilgrims, takaful arrangements, and emergency response mechanisms.
The cabinet directed the authorities to appoint Haj Moavineen “on merit” through a transparent mechanism. It further instructed that third-party validation of both government and private Haj operations should also be ensured to facilitate pilgrims.
The cabinet also commended Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf and his team for the successful management of this year’s pilgrimage.
