As India prepares for Haj pilgrimage in 2025, several key changes have been introduced in country’s Haj policy to better accommodate the needs of pilgrims.
The new policy, which revises the allocation of pilgrim quotas, prioritises elderly travelers, and introduces updated requirements for companions, reflects the government’s efforts to enhance the pilgrimage experience.
Additionally, the launch of a dedicated app aims to provide greater convenience and support to pilgrims throughout their journey.
Here are the eight essential points to know about India’s Haj Policy for 2025:
New Quota DistributionFor the 2025 Haj season, India’s quota will be split between the Haj Committee of India (HCoI) and private Haj Group Organisers. The HCoI will manage 70% of the total quota, while private organisers will handle the remaining 30%. This is a shift from 2024, when the HCoI had 80% of the quota and private organisers 20%.
Revised Priority ListThe updated policy prioritises pilgrims aged 65 and above, followed by ladies travelling without mehrams (LWM), and then the general category. This contrasts with 2024’s order of priority, which was for those aged 70 and above.
Mandatory Companion for Elderly PilgrimsPilgrims aged 65 or older must have a companion. The policy stipulates that no pilgrim in this age group will be registered alone under the reserved category. If a pilgrim aged 65 or above is travelling without a mehram, a female companion aged 45-60 is required.
Companion RequirementsFor non-LWM pilgrims aged 65 or above, companions must be immediate relatives, such as a spouse, sibling, child, or grandchild. Other relations are not permitted as companions. Both the pilgrim and companion must not travel alone.
Companion Age RestrictionsCompanions must be under 60 years old on the date specified by the HCoI. If a couple, both aged 65 or older, travels together, they are allowed two companions who must be blood relatives.
Age Limits for Mehram and CompanionsThe age of the mehram and companions for pilgrims aged 65 or above must be between 18 and 60 years as of the date specified by the HCoI. For LWM pilgrims in this age group, the companions must be female and aged 45-60.
Introduction of ‘Haj Suvidha’ AppA new app, ‘Haj Suvidha’, has been launched to enhance the convenience of Indian Haj pilgrims. The app offers features such as access to training materials, accommodation details, flight and baggage information, emergency help, grievance redressal, feedback, and language translation.
Pilgrims can fill out Haj Application Forms (HAFs) through the HCoI website at hajcommittee.gov.in, which is also mobile-friendly. This digital approach aims to streamline the application process and improve accessibility.
The Government of India and Saudi Arabia will finalise the number of allocated Haj seats annually through a bilateral agreement. For 2024, India has been allocated a quota of 175,025 pilgrims.
With inputs from PTI
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