First Batch of Haj 2026 Pilgrims Leaves Today with Improved Services and Arrangements, Union Minister for Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, extended his heartfelt wishes to all the pilgrims
Image Source : @MOMAIndia / Ministry of Minority Affairs.
Dated 18th April 2026
News By Dr. B R Abdul Wajid
Editor in Chief
New Delhi | The Haj pilgrimage from India for the year 2026 has officially begun today, April 18, with the first batch of pilgrims departing for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from various embarkation points across the country.
A total of 1,75,025 pilgrims from India are expected to undertake this sacred journey, making it one of the largest religious gatherings for Indian Muslims.
Union Minister for Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, extended his heartfelt wishes to all the pilgrims. He assured that the Government of India is fully committed to ensuring a safe, smooth and comfortable Haj experience for everyone.
Image Source : @MOMAIndia / Ministry of Minority Affairs.
The Ministry of Minority Affairs, as the nodal ministry for Haj, has made comprehensive arrangements in coordination with the Haj Committee of India, various central ministries, state governments and Saudi authorities. These efforts aim to ensure smooth travel, proper facilities and seamless arrangements for pilgrims.
Several new initiatives have been introduced for Haj 2026 to improve the overall experience. These include enhanced digital services through the Haj Suvidha App and the use of Haj Suvidha Smart Wristbands to help locate missing pilgrims and provide quick assistance.
Image Source : @MOMAIndia / Ministry of Minority Affairs.
For the first time, a short-duration Haj option of around 20 days has been introduced, giving more flexibility to pilgrims. The Government has also increased insurance coverage to around Rs. 6.25 lakh per pilgrim, ensuring better financial and health security during the journey.
Around 60,000 pilgrims will benefit from high-speed train services between Makkah and Madinah, making travel faster, safer and more comfortable. Improved medical screening, better healthcare support, real-time monitoring and quick grievance redressal systems have also been put in place.
Special focus has been given to accommodation and transport facilities in Saudi Arabia. Efforts have also been made to streamline airport procedures for hassle-free departures.
The Haj operations will be conducted through 17 embarkation points across the country, including major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Srinagar, ensuring easy access for pilgrims from different regions.
The Government of India has given top priority to the welfare and well-being of Haj pilgrims. Close coordination with Saudi authorities has been maintained to ensure smooth arrangements throughout the pilgrimage period.
Pilgrims have been advised to follow all guidelines and instructions issued by authorities, including health and travel advisories, to ensure a safe and peaceful Haj journey.
FILE VIDEO | Kiren Rijiju in his post on X on 11th November 2025, he said that – “I thank Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Shri Aseem Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), Shri Fahad Suri, Consul General of India, Jeddah and officials of @MOMAIndia & @MEAIndia for excellent coordination during my visit to Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Bilateral Haj Agreement was signed and successfully reviewed preparations for Haj 2026.” Source : @KirenRijiju on X.
With extensive preparations, improved facilities and strong coordination between the Government of India and Saudi authorities, Haj 2026 is expected to be smooth and well-organised. The efforts made by the Ministry aim to ensure that every pilgrim completes the sacred journey safely, comfortably and with a spiritually fulfilling experience.
News By Dr. B R Abdul Wajid
