Haj 2025: India’s Quota Remains Same, Application Process Starts with New Reforms
India’s Haj quota for 2025 remains unchanged at 1,75,025, as announced by Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday.
The application process for Haj 2025 has begun, with pilgrims able to apply through the Haj Committee of India’s website and the Haj Suvidha App for the first time.
The government has been working to make the Haj pilgrimage easier and more convenient for Indian pilgrims, with a series of reforms being introduced.
One of the notable reforms is the allowance for Muslim women aged 45 and above to perform Haj without a male companion, with 4558 women availing of this option in 2024.
The Haj Suvidha App was launched in 2024 to leverage information technology and enhance the pilgrimage experience, providing access to training content, accommodation and flight details, and more.
The government has reduced the age criteria for pilgrims requiring a companion from 70 to 65, reflecting its commitment to ensuring the well-being of citizens, even on foreign soil.
The government has initiated preparations for Haj 2025 early, with the Haj Review Meeting conducted on July 19, 2024, and the Haj Policy-2025 announced on August 5, 2024.
The government has been providing efficient healthcare services to Haj pilgrims, both before their departure from India and during their pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, with medical history and physical condition evaluations and linked Health Cards.
