Islamabad (HRNW)-\u00a0Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Yousaf has announced that, on the special instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the upcoming Hajj process has been fully digitized to facilitate pilgrims and reduce queues and additional expenses.<\/p>\n
Speaking at a press conference, Sardar Yousaf said around 400,000 registered applicants will be able to submit their Hajj applications online under the new system.<\/p>\n
He said Habib Bank Limited (HBL) has been authorized to receive Hajj applications across Pakistan.<\/p>\n
HBL Head of Islamic Banking and representative Asad Khan said the bank considers it an honor to facilitate Hajj pilgrims and will receive applications through approximately 1,700 branches nationwide.<\/p>\n
He added that around 96 percent of applicants will have access to a Habib Bank branch near their location. Overseas applicants will also be able to deposit funds through cards belonging to their family members in Pakistan.<\/p>\n
According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the cost of the 40-day Hajj package has been fixed at approximately Rs1.2 million, while the package for a shorter Hajj of 20 to 25 days has been set at approximately Rs1.3 million.<\/p>\n
Applicants will be able to deposit their Hajj funds from August 17, with 50 percent of the total amount required to be deposited in the first installment.<\/p>\n
The government says the digitized system is aimed at making the Hajj application and payment process more convenient, transparent and accessible for pilgrims across Pakistan.<\/p>\n
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