KARACHI, April 30: The Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Ijaz-ul-Haq, on Saturday said that the Haj Policy 2006 will be made public by mid May 2006. Addressing the Haj Conference 2006 organised by the Haj Directorate, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Zakat and Ushr, Mr Ijaz said quota for Haj was enhanced from 110,000 to 150,000 last year while efforts were being made to increase that further by 10,000. He said $6 million had been provided for hiring buildings to ensure better accommodation for Haj pilgrims.

Drawing a comparison between private tour operators and government arrangements, Ijaz said performing Haj through government arrangement cost cheaper than that performed thought private operators.

He said the government would continue efforts in bringing more reforms and facilities for Hujjaj.

In response to reservations and suggestions of private operators, he pointed out that no reduction in the private quota was being made rather consideration would be made for enhancing the same.

He also directed private groups to facilitate Hujjaj according to the package specified by the government.

Consideration would also be made for issuance of three-year license to private operators, he said.He also said that reduction in airfare for children would be discussed with the PIA and other airlines.

The representatives of private Haj operators presented their suggestions to the minister for incorporating these in the Haj Policy. The minister assured them of favourable considerations to the same.

The Sindh Minister for Religious Affairs, Manzoor Ali Panwhar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Religious Affairs Ilyas Dar and others also spoke.–APP/PPI