SRINAGAR: The Central Government has introduced a series of digital initiatives and enhanced welfare measures to improve the management of Hajj pilgrimage for Indian pilgrims during Hajj, the Lok Sabha was informed on Wednesday.
Replying to an unstarred question by BJP MP Dr Nishikant Dubey, Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju said the government has strengthened the digital ecosystem for Haj management through the launch of the Haj Suvidha App 2.0 and expanded online services covering applications, payments, accommodation details, grievance redressal and travel information.
The minister said the upgraded Haj Suvidha App provides end-to-end services, including travel schedules, accommodation details, baggage information, emergency contacts, SOS features, health advisories and grievance registration, enabling pilgrims to access essential information throughout their journey.
He said the Haj application process is now conducted entirely through an online portal and the Haj Suvidha App, while pilgrim selection is carried out through a transparent computerised system. Pilgrims can also make secure online payments and indicate their preferred flight schedules through the digital platform, subject to operational feasibility.
The government has also discontinued the requirement for physical submission of passports. Instead, passport details are submitted digitally, reducing paperwork and repeated visits to State and Union Territory Haj Committees. Accommodation details, flight information and other pilgrim-specific services are also available online.
Highlighting welfare measures for Haj 2026, Rijiju said hotel-style accommodation has been arranged for Indian pilgrims in Makkah, while traditional tents in Mina have been upgraded with sofa-cum-beds to improve comfort and optimise space.
The minister said the government has established clinics, medical centres and dispensaries at key pilgrimage sites in Saudi Arabia and deputed doctors, paramedics and other medical personnel to provide healthcare services to Indian pilgrims throughout the Haj period.
He added that every pilgrim is covered under a comprehensive insurance scheme providing coverage of up to Rs 6.25 lakh. Pilgrims are also being facilitated to travel between Makkah and Madinah using the High-Speed Rail network to reduce travel time and enhance convenience.
The minister further informed the House that pilgrims aged 65 years and above are required to travel with a companion to ensure adequate support during the pilgrimage. He said the government remains committed to improving the safety, welfare and overall experience of Indian Haj pilgrims through continued digital reforms and service enhancements.
