ISLAMABAD: The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, alongside zonal committees, is set to convene on the evening of Sunday, March 30, 2025 (corresponding to 29th Ramadan 1446 A.H.), to observe the crescent of Shawwal, which will determine the conclusion of Ramadan and the date for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations in Pakistan.
The meeting will be held at the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, where religious scholars, meteorological experts, and other key stakeholders will carefully analyze moon sighting reports from across the country. The official announcement regarding the sighting will play a crucial role in confirming whether Ramadan will end after 29 days or extend to 30 days.
According to astronomical predictions by the Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council, the crescent is expected to be visible on Sunday evening, March 30, provided that weather conditions remain clear. Khalid Ijaz Mufti, the Secretary General of the council, explained that the new moon will be born on Saturday, March 29, at 3:58 PM Pakistan time. By sunset on Sunday, the moon’s age will exceed 26 hours, which is well above the 18-hour minimum required for visibility. Furthermore, the gap between sunset and moonset will surpass the essential threshold of 40 minutes, ensuring a higher chance of sighting the crescent with the naked eye.
Based on these calculations, Eid-ul-Fitr is highly likely to be celebrated across Pakistan on Monday, March 31, 2025. However, the final decision will be made based on confirmed reports from across the country, with official announcements expected after Maghrib prayers on Sunday.
In a related development, the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) has announced the Fitra amount for the year 2025. The Chairman of the council, Allama Dr. Raghib Hussain Naeemi, emphasized the importance of fulfilling this religious obligation before Eid-ul-Fitr to support those in need. Additionally, the council has provided guidelines for Fidya-e-Sawm, which serves as compensation for individuals unable to fast due to health or other valid reasons.
As Pakistan awaits the moon sighting, preparations for Eid celebrations are in full swing, with markets witnessing a surge in shopping activity as families prepare for the joyous occasion. The final announcement by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will mark the beginning of nationwide festivities, bringing an end to the sacred month of fasting and ushering in a day of communal prayers, feasting, and charity.
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