Islamabad (TDI): Despite increasing number of registration for this years, all Hajj applications submitted under the Government Hajj Scheme have been approved, Ministry for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has announced.
According to APP, Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain stated on Tuesday that all Hajj applications received by December 3, 2024, have been approved and announced a seven-day extension for hajj application submissions.
APP reported that the extension aims to address the challenges faced by residents of remote areas in the application process.
Applicants under the Government Hajj Scheme can now submit their forms at designated banks until December 10, 2024.
Applicants under the sponsorship scheme have also been approved without a draw.
However, Chaudhry Salik Hussain clarified that ballot will be opted if applications exceed the allocated quota.
Overseas Pakistanis are required to deposit their sponsorship funds by December 10 for confirmation. A day earlier, the ministry urged the overseas Pakistanis to ensure their participation in the scheme by sending their sponsorship by today.
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To facilitate applicants and simplify process, the Ministry has introduced an online portal accessible via its official website, allowing applicants to submit their Hajj forms from home.
According to the Ministry, collection of dues in installments this year has led to increased Hajj applications.
Over 54,000 applications have been received under the Government Hajj Scheme till Yesterday.
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Hajj flight schedule will be finalized as soon as the application process concludes.
The accommodations being secured in Madina Munawara in line with the flight itineraries and arrangements for accommodation, meals, transportation, and logistical services, including Maktab allocations, will be completed in Saudi Arabia, a spokesperson for the ministry has stated.
The ministry is expecting further increase in number of the applications for Hajj after extensions of the deadline, officials said.
