New Delhi, June 18: Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju chaired a meeting on Thursday to discuss the roadmap for Hajj 2027 and analyze this year’s Hajj pilgrimage.
The review meeting took place at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC) in Delhi, where the minister expressed satisfaction with the successful organization of Hajj 2026, during which 175,000 Indian pilgrims performed the pilgrimage. This information was shared in an official statement.
Rijiju credited the success of Hajj 2026 to the dedicated and coordinated efforts of all relevant ministries and departments, the Hajj Committee of India, state Hajj committees, the Indian Hajj Mission in Saudi Arabia, and Saudi officials. Their collective contributions ensured a smooth, safe, and respectful pilgrimage experience.
The meeting included Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs Srivats Krishna; Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs (CPV and OIA) Sripriya Ranganathan; senior officials from the ministries of Minority Affairs, External Affairs, Civil Aviation, Health and Family Welfare, and Home Affairs; as well as representatives from the Hajj Committee of India, BIASAG-N, and other stakeholders.
According to an official statement, for the first time in history, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah awarded the Indian Hajj Mission two ‘Labbaytum’ awards in the category of ‘Best Hajj Coordination and Communication.’ These awards were presented during the ‘Khitamhu Misk’ ceremony held at the conclusion of the Hajj season.
These awards recognize the smooth arrangements and welfare initiatives for Indian pilgrims during Hajj 2026 and highlight India’s ongoing commitment to excellence in pilgrim service.
Several measures were implemented to facilitate pilgrims during Hajj 2026. Sofa-cum-beds were provided in Mina, enhancing comfort during the most challenging days of Hajj. Additionally, 62,500 pilgrims traveled from Mecca to Medina via high-speed rail, significantly reducing travel time. Hotel-like accommodations were arranged in Mecca, and a 20-day ‘Short Hajj Package’ was launched, benefiting around 10,500 pilgrims, primarily working professionals.
The statement noted that technology-based improvements enhanced transparency, security, and service delivery, including integration with the Saudi Nusuk platform, online flight bookings, and a strengthened digital grievance redressal mechanism.
All Indian pilgrims were accommodated in the ‘Markazia’ area in Medina, ensuring better access and convenience.
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