Islamabad: Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Muhammad Yousaf has announced plans to refund over three billion rupees, saved from last year’s Hajj expenditure, to pilgrims. The refund amount will range from twelve thousand rupees to one hundred and ten thousand rupees per pilgrim, depending on their category. The process aims to benefit over sixty-six thousand pilgrims and is expected to be completed by the end of this month.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Minister highlighted the government’s cost-effective initiatives for the upcoming Hajj. The expenditure for the long Hajj package, covering forty days, has been fixed at 1.15 million rupees, while the short Hajj package, covering twenty-five days, will cost 1.2 million rupees.

The Minister also mentioned that pilgrims under the government scheme will receive essential travel items, including a large trolley bag, a hand carry bag, and a scarf for women. To facilitate communication, a Saudi Arabian mobile phone SIM will be provided to each pilgrim.

Additionally, an extra quota of thirty thousand has been allocated to the Government Hajj Scheme for this year. The Minister advised intending pilgrims to deposit the second installment of their Hajj dues in designated banks from the 3rd to the 15th of next month.