New Haj policy

Why it is in news?

• The New Haj policy for 2018-22 suggests reduction of embarkation points for Haj pilgrimage from the existing 21 to only nine across the country
• Pilgrims in Rajasthan objected to it because of termination of flights from Jaipur.
•  The Haj flights from the State capital had started in 2005 after a seven-year-long agitation. 

Committee on Haj policy 

• The committee, headed by former Union Secretary Afzal Amanullah, submitted its report to Minority Affairs Minister
• It has recommended abolishing subsidy for Haj pilgrims and allowing women above 45 years of age to travel in a group of at least four without a male