IN a bid to attract valuable foreign exchange and cater to the needs of Diaspora Pakistanis, the government had introduced a special sponsorship scheme for the next year’s Hajj. However, the response has been lukewarm, with only twenty-eight hundred applications received for the allocated twenty-five thousand seats.
The situation is not isolated to the sponsorship scheme alone. Even under the regular Hajj scheme, the government faced a shortage of applicants, compelling it to extend the deadline for submission. Despite a reduction of one hundred thousand rupees in the Hajj package, the total expenses of 1,075,000 rupees remain a significant financial burden for many. The Hajj pilgrimage is a sacred obligation for Muslims and the people often save for years to fulfil this religious duty. However, the annual increase in Hajj expenses has made it increasingly challenging for many to afford this spiritual journey. Many individuals belonging to the salaried class often find themselves performing the Hajj pilgrimage after retirement, utilizing the amount received through commutation. Mostly, these individuals choose to embark on this sacred journey with their spouses, fostering a shared experience of devotion and fulfilment. However, the financial aspect remains a substantial consideration, given the considerable expenses associated with the Hajj now. For the couple, the hajj package exceeds Rs 2100000. Hence, it is crucial to acknowledge the financial strain on individuals and families and explore ways to make the pilgrimage more accessible. Consultations can be held both with the Saudi friends and the airlines to make the pilgrimage more affordable. As regards the sponsorship scheme, tailored for Diaspora Pakistanis, it is an excellent initiative, but its success hinges on effective communication and enticing arrangements. First and foremost, it is essential to ensure that the Diaspora is well-informed about the benefits and details of the scheme through Pakistani embassies and missions abroad. There is a need to create informational campaigns highlighting the advantages of the sponsorship scheme, such as the exemption from balloting for those paying in dollars from abroad. Top-notch facilities and services for Diaspora Pakistanis must be guaranteed, ensuring a comfortable and spiritually enriching experience for them.
