Embarkation points for Haj flights to remain

The Centre has decided to retain all 21 embarkation points for operation of flights for Haj pilgrims, despite an expert committee recommending that the number be brought down to nine, to “address the concerns of state governments and pilgrims”.

Minority affairs minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi told ET that all the other recommendations of the committee appointed by the government, including abolishing subsidy for Haj pilgrims and allowing women above 45 years of age to travel in a group of at least four without an accompanying male, would be implemented soon.

“But states such as Bihar, Rajasthan and MP had written to us requesting the changes not be made this year as they would need some more time for preparation. We studied the issue thoroughly and felt we must listen to them,” Naqvi said.

The ministry of minority affairs had constituted the committee earlier this year to review the Haj policy and suggest a framework for a new policy for 2018-2022. The committee, headed by former Union secretary Afzal Amanullah, submitted its report to the Centre last week.