Which of the following statements is NOT correct as one of the major highlights of Haj 2022?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

CRPF Head Constable Ministerial Official Paper (Held On: 24 Feb 2023 Shift 2)

Considering the health care needs in the post-pandemic period, Saudi Arabia restricted the total number of pilgrims to 10 lakhs including 8.5 lakhs from outside.
Pilgrims below the age of 70 years who were fully vaccinated with approved COVID vaccines were allowed.
The core Haj period was between 5^th July and 12^th July 2022, but the departure of pilgrims started w.e.f. 24^th June 2022. The Bilateral Haj Agreement was inked on 20^th April 2022.
During a normal year, the works related to preparations for Haj operations are completed in 5-6 months in advance, but for Haj 2022, the same were arranged on very short notice of one and a half months.

Answer 1

The correct answer is Pilgrims below the age of 70 years who were fully vaccinated with approved COVID vaccines were allowed.

Key Points

For Haj 2022, Saudi Arabia restricted the total number of pilgrims to 10 lakhs, including 8.5 lakhs from outside Saudi Arabia.
The core Haj period for 2022 was between 5th July and 12th July, but departures began on 24th June 2022.
The Bilateral Haj Agreement for Haj 2022 was signed on 20th April 2022.
Typically, preparations for Haj operations are completed 5-6 months in advance, but for Haj 2022, arrangements were made on short notice of one and a half months.

Additional Information

COVID-19 Vaccination and Travel Regulations:
- Many countries, including Saudi Arabia, implemented strict COVID-19 vaccination and testing requirements for international travelers in 2022.
- Full vaccination with approved vaccines was typically required for entry and participation in large gatherings.
Haj Pilgrimage:
- Haj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, and a mandatory religious duty for Muslims that must be carried out at least once in their lifetime.
- The pilgrimage occurs from the 8th to the 12th of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar.
Bilateral Haj Agreements:
- These agreements are signed between Saudi Arabia and other countries to outline the number of pilgrims and logistical arrangements for the Haj season.
- Such agreements ensure the orderly conduct and safety of pilgrims from different nations.
Health Measures for Haj:
- Health measures are often implemented to prevent the spread of infectious diseases during Haj, which sees large gatherings from various parts of the world.
- Past measures have included vaccination requirements, health screenings, and medical facilities for pilgrims.