New Delhi / Jeddah – November 10: Consolidating bilateral arrangements for Indian pilgrims, India and Saudi Arabia formally signed the bilateral Haj Agreement for 2027 in Jeddah on Monday, securing a total pilgrimage quota of 1,75,025 Indian citizens for the sacred annual pilgrimage, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah confirmed.
The agreement was executed by Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, who led a high-level Indian delegation to Saudi Arabia, following bilateral consultations with Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah. The ministerial delegations reviewed operational blueprints, logistical facilitation, accommodation arrangements in Mecca and Medina, and health protocols aimed at ensuring a seamless and dignified experience for Indian pilgrims.
Under the bilateral framework, India’s aggregate allocation of 1,75,025 slots has been sustained, maintaining the enhanced quota first achieved in recent years—marking a significant increase from 1,36,020 pilgrims in 2014. The official distribution guarantees equitable participation across State and Union Territory Haj Committees alongside registered private tour operators.
During his four-day official mission from November 6 to 9, accompanied by Joint Secretary (Haj) Mohammad Afzal, Minister Rijiju participated in the inaugural session of the sixth Hajj Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah. He engaged in ministerial interactions with Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Deputy Governor of the Makkah Region, conveying New Delhi’s appreciation for the Saudi administration’s ongoing infrastructure investments across the holy sites.
Reviewing on-ground logistics, the Union Minister chaired a coordination conclave with officials of the Indian Consulate, the Ministry of Minority Affairs, and the Haj Committee of India to review medical teams, flight operations, and IT-enabled pilgrim assistance cells. Minister Rijiju also attended a community reception at India House in Jeddah, interacting with members of the Indian diaspora and Saudi dignitaries.
Published by True Roots Media