ISLAMABAD: Starting on Monday, the preparation for those who are planning to travel to Hajj for the pilgrimage in June of this year has started. The training will be offered nationwide in two phases, according to a Sunday announcement from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.
The ministry has also issued a warning, stating that participation in the program—which will be run at the district level by the religious affairs ministry through seven camps—is required of Hajj pilgrims.
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“The series of training workshops will continue in Hajj camps until the departure of the last Hajj flight. The first phase of training will end before Ramadan, while the second phase will begin after Ramadan,” the ministry announced.
Two phases of intensive training are planned for around 69,000 pilgrims under the government system; the second phase is expected to start after Ramadan. Based on the information that is currently available, successful intending pilgrims will receive the comprehensive training schedule via text message and through the Hajj app, which will enable them to attend seminars at convenient local locations.
The Hajj training program is a thorough curriculum with a focus on administrative, discipline, and ritualistic aspects of the Hajj.
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Chief Hajj Trainer Nasir Aziz Khan is overseeing the instruction, which focuses on the ‘Pak Hajj’ smartphone app, preparations, understanding the rite, resolving difficulties, and general rules. Using 3D films and interactive workshops, the creative method uses model tents that resemble Mina Valley to create a realistic learning environment.
It is important to note that Pakistan has already held elections for pilgrims who applied through the official Hajj program. The Short Hajj package has been made available to pilgrims by the authorities, and this year’s Sponsorship Scheme is still in effect.
The cost of the Long Hajj, which would last 38–42 days and include an 8-day stay in Medinah, is Rs 10,65,000 for travelers from the South, including Karachi and Sukkhur, and Rs 10,75,000 for those from other cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, Multan, Sialkot, and Faisalabad.
The cost for applicants to the sponsorship scheme is $3765 for those in the South Region and $3800 for those in the North Region who choose to purchase the Long Hajj package. Regular Hajj candidates would pay Rs 11,40,000 for the South region and Rs 11,50,000 for the North region for the Short Hajj package. Under this program, the Hajj would go for 20–25 days.
The cost of the Short Hajj under the Sponsorship Scheme is $4015 USD for the South and $4050 USD for the North.