Madinah (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), January 6. As part of the Government of India’s early and proactive preparations for Haj 2026, Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA), Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, visited the Indian Haj Pilgrims Office (IHPO) in Madinah and reviewed the arrangements being put in place for Indian pilgrims.
Dr. Kumar conducted an on-ground assessment of key facilities, including pilgrim accommodations and medical services, to ensure comfort, safety and quality support for Indian Hajis. The visit formed part of an official delegation to Saudi Arabia to review Haj preparedness and to hold bilateral discussions with the Saudi Haj Ministry.
The Secretary was accompanied by Consul General of India, Jeddah, Shri Fahad Ahmad Khan Suri, Joint Secretary (Haj) Shri Ram Singh, Chief Executive Officer, Haj Committee of India, Shri Shahnavas, and Director (Haj) Shri Nazeem Ahmed.
During the visit, Haj Consul Ms. Sadaf Choudary briefed the delegation on the comprehensive arrangements being made for Indian pilgrims and the close coordination underway with Saudi authorities.
Reiterating the Government’s commitment, Dr. Kumar said that India is fully focused on facilitating Haj pilgrims through advance planning, robust coordination with Saudi counterparts and continuous monitoring of on-ground arrangements to ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling experience.
Highlighting the Ministry’s emphasis on digital transformation, the Secretary noted that the Haj Suvidha App, developed by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, is playing a key role in improving transparency, efficiency and pilgrim-centric service delivery.
The visit reflects the Government of India’s sustained efforts to ensure a safe, seamless and enriching Haj journey for pilgrims from India during Haj 2026.
