Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju Reviews Haj-2026, Announces Early Preparations for Haj-2027

Image Source : @MOMAIndia

Dated 18th June 2026

News By Dr. B R Abdul Wajid

Editor in Chief

New Delhi | Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju chaired the Haj Review Meeting today at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC), New Delhi, to review the successful conduct of Haj-2026 and to discuss the roadmap for Haj-2027.

Expressing satisfaction over the successful completion of Haj-2026, Kiren Rijiju said that around 1.75 lakh Indian pilgrims performed Haj this year. He appreciated the coordinated efforts of all concerned Ministries and departments, the Haj Committee of India, State Haj Committees, the Indian Haj Mission in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Saudi authorities for ensuring a smooth, safe and dignified pilgrimage.

VIDEO | “A journey of faith, service and collective commitment. Haj 2026 marked another significant milestone in ensuring a safe, smooth and dignified pilgrimage experience for approximately 1.75 lakh Indian Haj pilgrims. From enhanced accommodation and transportation arrangements to technology-driven reforms and strengthened welfare measures, the successful conduct of Haj 2026 reflects the coordinated efforts of the Ministry of Minority Affairs and all stakeholder agencies. The Ministry remains committed to the vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas while continuing to enhance pilgrim welfare and service delivery for every Indian Haj pilgrim.” ~ Source : @MOMAIndia.

In a major achievement, the Indian Haj Mission received two prestigious Labbaytum Awards from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah under the category of “Best Haj Coordination and Communication”. The awards were presented during the Khitamahu Misk ceremony marking the conclusion of the Haj season, recognising India’s commitment towards excellent services and welfare of pilgrims.

Reviewing the preparations for Haj-2027, the Union Minister directed all concerned Ministries, agencies and the Haj Committee of India to begin arrangements on priority. He stressed the need for timely planning regarding quota allocation, health requirements, air travel, accommodation, transportation, Mina facilities, medical preparedness and wider use of technology.

Kiren Rijiju stated that close coordination with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah would be essential for the success of Haj-2027. He informed that the bilateral agreement on Haj-2027 between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will be signed on November 7, 2026.

The Minister further announced that the Haj Policy-2027 would be released shortly, following which the Haj Committee of India would invite applications from intending pilgrims.

Reiterating the Government of India’s commitment, Kiren Rijiju said every effort would be made to ensure a safe, comfortable, transparent and dignified Haj experience for every Indian pilgrim.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Srivatsa Krishna, Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs; Ms. Sripriya Ranganathan, Secretary (CPV & OIA), Ministry of External Affairs; senior officials from various Ministries, representatives of the Haj Committee of India, BISAG-N and other stakeholders.

Image Source : @MOMAIndia

“With the successful completion of Haj-2026 and the beginning of preparations for Haj-2027, the Government of India has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring better facilities, transparency and a smooth pilgrimage for Indian Haj pilgrims in the years ahead.” ~ News By Dr. B R Abdul Wajid.