KARACHI: State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) released first tranche of $ 50 million to Pakistani Hajj Mission in Saudi Arabia for government Hajj scheme 2023.

As per sources within Ministry of religious affairs, government was asked to provide $ 213 million for Hajj scheme. SBP sources said that amount of $ 213 million will be given to Ministry of Religious Affairs in four installments within three to four days.

Finance Ministry has also released second tranche of $ 40 million to State Bank of Pakistan. Amount of $ 213 million is being given to Ministry for fares of airlines, residence, transport and other taxes of pilgrims performing Hajj this year under government scheme.

Quota of 89,605 pilgrims willing to perform Hajj under government quota was fixed by incumbent government for this year but Ministry received around 80,000 applications.

Eralier Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood was briefed that first Hajj flight would take off on May 20, from Pakistan.

Secretary Religious Affairs Aftab Akbar Durrani briefing Minister informed that Hajj fight operation would likely to be concluded on June 21.

Published in The Daily National Courier, April, 28 2023

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