SRINAGAR: The Union Government has said it has undertaken a comprehensive modernisation of India’s Hajj infrastructure, combining digital platforms, upgraded medical facilities, and improved physical arrangements both in India and in Saudi Arabia. Responding to a question in the Lok Sabha, the Ministry of Minority Affairs detailed the measures in place and the upcoming initiatives, including the proposed Haj House at Kharghar in Navi Mumbai and the preparations already under way for Haj 2026.
The ministry said the modernisation effort spans three broad areas. Digital infrastructure has been fully overhauled through the Haj Suvidha mobile application and an end-to-end digitised portal that enables online registration, payments, medical uploads, real-time tracking and feedback. Medical support has been expanded with round-the-clock clinics, mobile medical teams, dental units, pharmacists and emergency care for pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, backed by systematic health monitoring. Physical infrastructure has also been strengthened with early inspection and booking of residential buildings in Makkah and Madinah, upgraded transport fleets, airport shuttles, and air-conditioned accommodation in Mina and Arafat. Training facilities at Haj House Mumbai and regional centres have been enhanced, while embarkation points across India are being regularly reassessed and upgraded in coordination with State Haj Committees and the Haj Committee of India.
On the upcoming Haj House in Navi Mumbai’s Kharghar area, the government outlined key features and said the project is positioned as part of a larger plan to expand pre-departure capacity, training facilities and administrative support for pilgrims departing from Maharashtra and neighbouring regions. The ministry said the implementation timeline, coordinated with the State Haj Committee and other agencies, is intended to align with future Haj operational cycles.
For Haj 2026, the government said it has strengthened coordination between the Ministry of Minority Affairs, the Haj Committee of India and State Haj Committees. This includes periodic review meetings, detailed operational guidelines, fixed timelines for all preparatory activities, and consultations to streamline accommodation, transport and training arrangements. The government said this structured coordination framework is designed to avoid delays and ensure uniform standards of facilitation across States.
The government also highlighted expanded support systems for pilgrims, particularly senior citizens and first-time travellers. It said the State Haj Inspector ratio had been improved from 1:300 to 1:200 and further to 1:150 to ensure more effective on-ground assistance. Inspectors are now selected through a computer-based test and interview to ensure better-trained personnel. Pre-departure medical screening has been strengthened, on-site medical arrangements in Saudi Arabia have been reinforced, and digital facilitation has been upgraded through the Haj Suvidha App, which now offers real-time guidance and grievance services.
For Haj 2026, all pilgrims will receive Haj Suvidha Smart Watches for navigation, tracking and emergency alerts within Saudi Arabia. The ministry added that embarkation points are receiving additional support, and special orientation sessions are being organised for first-time pilgrims. These measures, it said, are aimed at delivering a safer, smoother and more comfortable Haj experience for Indian pilgrims.
