Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Announces Departure of First Haj Batch on April 18

New Delhi, April 17, 2026: The Haj pilgrimage from India for 2026 will begin on April 18, with the first group of pilgrims scheduled to leave for Saudi Arabia from multiple embarkation points across the country. A total of 1,75,025 pilgrims are expected to participate in this year’s pilgrimage.

Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju conveyed his best wishes to all pilgrims and reaffirmed the government’s focus on ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. He noted that several new measures have been introduced to improve the overall experience for participants.

The Ministry of Minority Affairs has put in place extensive arrangements in collaboration with the Haj Committee of India, various central ministries, state governments, and authorities in Saudi Arabia. These coordinated efforts aim to streamline travel, accommodation, and support services for pilgrims.

Among the key initiatives introduced this year is the expansion of digital services through the Haj Suvidha App, along with the use of smart wristbands to assist in locating pilgrims and providing timely support. For the first time, a shorter Haj option of around 20 days has been introduced, offering greater flexibility.

The government has also increased insurance coverage to approximately Rs 6,25,000 per pilgrim, enhancing financial protection. Around 60,000 pilgrims will benefit from high speed train connectivity between Makkah and Madinah, ensuring quicker and more convenient travel between the two cities.

Additional improvements include real time monitoring systems, stronger grievance redressal mechanisms, upgraded medical screening and healthcare support, and better coordination for accommodation and transportation in Saudi Arabia. Hotel style accommodation has been arranged in Makkah to provide improved comfort to pilgrims.

Efforts have also been made to simplify airport procedures, ensuring smoother departures. Haj operations will be conducted through 17 embarkation points across India, including major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Srinagar.

The government has emphasized its commitment to the well being of pilgrims and continues to work closely with Saudi authorities to ensure efficient arrangements throughout the pilgrimage period.

Pilgrims have been advised to follow all official guidelines, including health and travel advisories, to ensure a safe and spiritually enriching journey.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju extended his heartfelt wishes to all pilgrims undertaking the sacred journey this year.