Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 9: The Ministry of Minority Affairs announced on Tuesday that Indian pilgrims intending to undertake the Haj pilgrimage in 2026 can now submit their applications online until July 31, 2025. The process is being facilitated through the Haj Committee of India.

Applications can be submitted via the official website hajcommittee.gov.in or through the ‘Haj Suvidha’ mobile app, available for both Android and iOS platforms. The online application window opened on July 7 and will remain active until 11:59 p.m. on July 31, 2025.

The Ministry emphasized that applicants must possess a machine-readable Indian international passport valid at least till December 31, 2026, and issued on or before the application deadline.

Applicants are advised to read the guidelines and undertakings carefully before applying. The Haj Committee also cautioned that cancellations — except in cases of death or grave medical emergencies — could lead to penalties or financial losses.

The announcement marks the beginning of preparations for one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, offering Indian Muslims an opportunity to fulfil their spiritual duty with the support of the government.

In 2025, the Indian Haj Mission earned praise for ensuring that pilgrims reached Mount Arafat for the critical Wuquf-e-Arafat ritual, including the sick and hospitalised, through special buses and dedicated ambulances.

India’s Consul General in Jeddah, Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri, confirmed the safe and timely arrival of pilgrims, acknowledging coordination between the Indian and Saudi authorities.

The Indian government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has pledged to improve the Haj experience through greater transparency, affordability, and logistical support. Last year, over 1.75 lakh Indian pilgrims performed Haj with the assistance of the Indian Haj Mission — the largest international operation handled by India beyond its borders.