India Begins Preparations for Haj-2025 with Major Reforms and Innovations

New Delhi: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has allocated a quota of 1,75,025 pilgrims to India for Haj-2025, marking the beginning of the country’s extensive preparations for the annual pilgrimage. Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, officially opened the application process today for Indian pilgrims intending to embark on Haj-2025 through the Haj Committee of India. For the first time, applications are being accepted via the Haj Suvidha App, in addition to the Committee’s website, making the process more accessible and streamlined.

To support the application process, a dedicated helpline and social media channels have been operationalized by the Haj Committee of India to assist pilgrims with their queries and concerns.

The Government of India has been continuously working to enhance the Haj pilgrimage experience for Indian Muslims. One of the most significant reforms introduced recently is the provision allowing Muslim women aged 45 and above to perform Haj without a male companion (Mehram) under the Ladies without Mehram (LWM) category. In 2024, a record number of 4,558 women undertook the pilgrimage under this category, and efforts are underway to make Haj-2025 even more accessible for LWM pilgrims.

Building on the reforms introduced during Haj-2024, the Haj Suvidha App has become a cornerstone of the pilgrimage process. Launched last year, the app offers comprehensive services, including access to training materials, accommodation and flight details, baggage information, emergency contacts, grievance redressal, and even language translation services. The app not only enhances the experience for pilgrims but also facilitates better coordination between the Indian administration and pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.

For Haj-2025, preparations have commenced well in advance, with a review meeting chaired by Kiren Rijiju on July 19, 2024, followed by the announcement of the Haj Policy-2025 on August 5, 2024. This proactive approach aims to secure the best possible arrangements in terms of accommodation, transport, and logistics for Indian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.

A notable change in the upcoming pilgrimage is the adjustment of the age criteria for mandatory companions. Pilgrims aged 65 or above will now be required to be accompanied by a companion, with the highest priority given to this age group in seat allotment. This age criterion, previously set at 70 years, has been lowered to better accommodate the strenuous nature of the pilgrimage and the challenging climatic conditions in Saudi Arabia.

In a move to simplify the administrative process, the Government has eliminated the need for pilgrims to deposit their physical passports with the Haj Committee of India for several months. Instead, passport offices across the country have been directed to expedite passport issuance for Haj applicants.

The Government of India continues to prioritize the health and well-being of its Haj pilgrims. For Haj-2025, the medical history and current physical condition of all pilgrims will be carefully evaluated, with health information being linked to the Haj Suvidha App for easy access in case of emergencies. Additionally, the ratio of State Haj Inspectors to pilgrims has been improved from 1:300 to 1:150, ensuring better support and guidance during the pilgrimage.

To further enhance convenience, all Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs) will offer customized banking services for Haj pilgrims across their branches and at Embarkation Points throughout the country.