Banks start receiving Haj applications

Islamabad: The designated branches of banks have started receiving Haj applications across the country from today (Monday).

According to spokesperson of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Imran Siddiqi, Haj applications will be received from intending pilgrims till 24th of this month at thirteen designated bank branches across Pakistan, including Azad Kashmir, private news channel reported.

He said that balloting for successful applicants will be held on 26th of this month. He said that Haj dues had not been increased this year in order to further facilitate the intending pilgrims. He continued Rs280,000 would be paid by the intending pilgrims of North region, while Rs270,000 would be received from the intending pilgrims going to perform Haj from South Region.

The spokesman informed that a total of 179,210 Pakistanis would perform the sacred religious obligation this year, 67 per cent will perform Haj under government scheme and 33 per cent under private scheme.