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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF MINORITY AFFAIRS
LOK SABHA
UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 530
TO BE ANSWERED ON 22/07/2026
DIGITAL INITIATIVES FOR MANAGEMENT OF HAJJ PILGRIMAGE
530. DR. NISHIKANT DUBEY:
Will the Minister of MINORITY AFFAIRS be pleased to state:
(a) the digital initiatives undertaken to improve the management of Hajj pilgrimage for
Indian pilgrims during Hajj 2026;
(b) the extent to which online systems have been implemented for application, selection,
payment, accommodation and grievance redressal;
(c) the details of measures taken to enhance the welfare of pilgrims including healthcare,
accommodation, transportation and emergency assistance during Hajj 2026; and
(d) whether the Government proposes to introduce any additional digital services or reforms
to improve the Hajj experience in future and if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF MINORITY AFFAIRS
SHRI KIREN RIJIJU
(a) and (b): The Government has undertaken several digital initiatives to improve the
management of the Haj pilgrimage for Indian pilgrims during Haj 2026. The major initiatives are
as follows:
i. Haj Suvidha App 2.0: The Ministry has launched Haj Suvidha App 2.0, an enhanced
digital platform providing pilgrims with end-to-end information and services relating to
their Haj journey. The App facilitates access to travel schedules, accommodation details,
baggage information, emergency contacts, SOS, health-related information, important
advisories, and grievance redressal, thereby improving communication and service
delivery. Pilgrims can register and track grievances through the Haj Suvidha App,
facilitating timely resolution and improved service delivery.
ii. Online Haj Application and Selection: The Haj application process is conducted
through an online portal & Haj Suvidha App, and the selection of pilgrims is carried out
through a transparent, computerised process, ensuring efficiency and transparency.
iii. Online Payment System: Pilgrims can make Haj-related payments through secure online
payment modes, facilitating timely and convenient financial transactions.
iv. Online Flight Selection: Pilgrims are provided with the facility to indicate their
preferred flight dates and timings through the online system, subject to operational
feasibility, thereby improving convenience and travel planning.v. Digital Submission of Passports: The requirement for physical submission of passports
has been dispensed with. Pilgrims can submit passport details digitally, reducing
paperwork, processing time and the need for repeated visits to State/UT Haj Committees.
vi. Digital Accommodation and Pilgrim Information: Details relating to accommodation,
flight details and other pilgrim-specific services are made available digitally through the
Haj Suvidha App and the online Haj portal, enabling pilgrims to access information
conveniently.
(c) and (d): The Government has taken several measures to enhance the welfare of Indian Haj
pilgrims during Haj 2026, particularly in the areas of healthcare, accommodation, transportation
and emergency assistance. The major initiatives are as follows:
i. Improved Accommodation: Hotel-style accommodation has been arranged for Indian
Haj pilgrims in Makkah for Haj-2026 with improved amenities and services. In Mina
camps, the traditional accommodation arrangements have been upgraded by providing
sofa-cum-beds, ensuring greater comfort and better utilisation of space.
ii. Medical Infrastructure in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Clinics, medical centres and
dispensaries are established at key pilgrimage locations to provide medical services to
Indian Haj pilgrims throughout the Haj period. The Government deputes qualified
doctors, paramedics and other medical personnel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to
provide medical assistance to Indian Haj pilgrims.
iii. Comprehensive Insurance Coverage: Every Haj pilgrim is covered under a
comprehensive insurance scheme providing coverage of up to ₹6.25 lakh, offering
financial protection against unforeseen contingencies during the pilgrimage.
iv. Improved Transportation: Indian Haj pilgrims are facilitated to travel between Makkah
and Madinah through the High-Speed Rail, significantly reducing travel time and
enhancing safety and convenience.
v. Special Facilitation for Vulnerable Pilgrims: Pilgrims aged 65 years and above are
required to be accompanied by a companion to ensure adequate support and assistance
throughout the pilgrimage.
The Government is committed to ensure the safety, welfare, comfort and overall well-being
of Indian Haj pilgrims through digital services and reforms.
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