Published Feb 23, 2023 | 3:17 PM ⚊ Updated Feb 23, 2023 | 3:17 PM
An image taken during Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. (Creative Commons)
Andhra Pradesh Haj Committee will facilitate the pilgrimage of 3,000 devotees in 2023 for the Hajj pilgrimage, its chairman BS Ghouse Azam said.
Azam said the number of Hajj pilgrims from the state has increased from 1,100 in 2022 to 3,000 in 2023, and hoped that all of them will get visas, adding that the committee was completely ready for this year’s Haj.
Further, he said Haj pilgrims with an income of ₹3 lakh or below will be given a cash allowance of ₹60,000 and ₹30,000 for those beyond ₹3 lakh, a scheme which is being continued in 2023 as well.
“Though Hajis from any state in India can depart for the pilgrimage from any state, it will be easy to provide all facilities for Andhra Pradesh Hajis embarking from Vijayawada, including taking the allowances,” said a statement quoting Azam on Wednesday night.
It is easy to monitor and track all the pilgrims departing from Vijayawada while it needs coordination from other states for those Andhra Pradesh Hajis departing from Hyderabad or Bengaluru. Hence, Azam called on the Hajis from the southern state to make use of Vijayawada where better facilities are available.
According to him, the committee is envisaging sending pilgrims to Mecca and Medina from Vijayawada itself and also arranging medical camps in both Saudi Arabian cities, along with arranging all the facilities.
To cater to the medical needs of Andhra Pradesh Hajis, Azam said it will be easy to engage government employees and volunteers and called on all the pilgrims, Muslims and about 22 voluntary Haj Societies to take note of these government services and assistance.
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