With only 28,782 applications received so far, Pakistan is considering extending the deadline for submitting Hajj applications under the government scheme. The meager response has prompted authorities to explore alternative measures to boost participation.
Data reveals that on Saturday, only 24,446 applications were collected under the official regular scheme, while the sponsorship scheme, designed to facilitate pilgrims, received a modest 174 applications on the last day. In response, the Ministry of Religious Affairs is contemplating extending the submission period by 7 to 10 days, aiming to encourage more applications and ensure broader participation in the Hajj pilgrimage.
Despite efforts such as reducing Hajj expenses and introducing short-term Hajj facilities, the number of applications has still declined this year. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony had to return a quota of almost 20,000 to Saudi Arabia following a drop in Hajj pilgrims last year.
In a separate development, Pakistan has waived the mandatory requirement of a Covid vaccination certificate for next year’s Hajj pilgrims. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony announced this change via its official Twitter handle, stating that the compulsory Covid vaccination certificate for Hajj pilgrims in 2024 has been abolished.
