Dhaka, July 30 -- The government has taken steps to drive down the overall cost of Hajj journeys by reducing airfares and securing extra amenities for pilgrims.

State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat outlined the plans on Thursday while opening a three-day national Hajj and Umrah fair at the China-Bangladesh Friendship Centre in Dhaka.

According to him, the government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman prioritises creating "affordable, hassle-free" Hajj packages for Bangladeshi pilgrims under the "Bangladesh First" principle.

Reflecting on government efforts to lower expenses, Millat noted that ticket prices were reduced by Tk 12,000 last year and cut further by Tk 25,000 this year, bringing the fare down...