**Pakistan Launches Modern Digital System to Ensure Safety and Accountability of Religious Pilgrims**
The Federal Ministry for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony has introduced a modern digital system to enhance the safety, traceability, and services for Pakistani religious pilgrims traveling abroad. The initiative aims to address concerns over outdated records and to dispel misconceptions about missing citizens traveling for pilgrimage.
Federal Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousaf clarified that his earlier reference to “forty thousand” pilgrims was misunderstood and never intended to imply that thousands of Pakistanis were missing abroad. He explained that the core issue stems from incomplete migration of past paper records into the ministry’s central digital registry, leading to confusion and speculation.
To overcome these challenges, the ministry has launched an advanced online platform. Under this system, all pilgrims and group organizers receive a digital e-card featuring a QR code, which provides immediate access to travelers’ information for both families and government authorities. Sardar Muhammad Yousaf emphasized that this move will enhance protection and convenience for citizens heading to destinations such as Iran, Iraq, and Syria.
Additionally, the updated system ensures that updated passenger and pilgrimage lists are regularly and promptly shared with relevant authorities in hosting countries. This measure is expected to eliminate misunderstandings and prevent false propaganda regarding the status of Pakistani pilgrims.
The minister urged all tour operators and pilgrims to register their details on the official online portal by August 31, 2025, to prevent anyone’s name from appearing on an “incomplete list.” He stated that the government’s top priority is ensuring the safety of every Pakistani traveling abroad for religious purposes.
Sardar Muhammad Yousaf also called on media and civil society to support efforts to curb unfounded rumors and clarify any public misconceptions. He stressed the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens overseas and encouraged collective participation in making the digital system successful.
The minister concluded by highlighting Pakistan’s responsible use of modern technology, assuring the international community of the transparency and traceability of records related to pilgrims and international travelers.
