New Delhi, Delhi, 16th of February, 2026 : Ministry of Minority Affairs organized Orientation-cum-Training Programme for Haj Deputationists for Haj 2026 at Vigyan Bhawan, NewDelhi. The program was inaugurated by the Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs, Shri George Kurian marking the formal commencement of preparations for Haj 2026, during which around 1.75 lakh Indian pilgrims will undertake the pilgrimage. Deputationists will be deployed for a period of two and half months in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the oversight of the CGI to provide essential administrative and medical support to the pilgrims. The deputationists have been selected from diverse government organization reflecting a coordinated national effort to ensure safe efficient and compassionate services for all pilgrims.
Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs, Shri George Kurian,in his inaugural address emphasized that Haj management is one of the largest and most complex logistical operations undertaken by India in abroad. He underscored that deputationists are entrusted with the responsibility of serving approximately 1.75 lakh pilgrims and are, in effect, the face of the Government of India in Saudi Arabia.
The Minister highlighted key welfare measures and reforms introduced in recent years, including special facilitation for elderly pilgrims with provision for companions, enhanced arrangements for women pilgrims travelling without Mehram. Shri Kurian also stressed upon the Ministry’s strengthened coordination under a whole-of-government approach involving other Ministries like Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Ministry of Civil Aviation alongwith deployment of nearly 600 government officials for Haj 2026.
Dr. C.S. Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs during his address welcomed all deputationists and highlighted that India is among the largest contributors of Haj pilgrims globally, with approximately 1.75 lakh pilgrims expected this year. He informed that preparations for Haj 2026 have been streamlined. He acknowledged the cooperation of the Ministry of External Affairs, Saudi officials, the Consulate General of India in Jeddah, and other stakeholders in ensuring timely arrangements.
Dr. Kumar further emphasized the importance of structured, phase-wise training to equip deputationists for on-ground realities; the use of audio-visual modules to better familiarize officers with operational procedures.He also stressed upon greater integration of technology, including digital platforms and AI-enabled systems; continuous improvement through feedback from field officers; and the need for cultural sensitivity, discipline and dignified conduct by the deputationists while representing India abroad.
Shri Aseem Mahajan, Additional Secretary, MEA underlined that Haj is accorded the highest importance by the Government of India and requires close coordination between the Ministries of Minority Affairs and External Affairs, along with multiple other stakeholders. He highlighted the pivotal role of the Consulate General of India in Jeddah and the Embassy of India in Riyadh in overall coordination of Haj arrangements. He further referred to India’s strong and multifaceted relationship with Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, supported by a vibrant Indian diaspora of nearly 10 million in the region, including around 2.7 million in Saudi Arabia. He also noted the expanding trade relations between India and the GCC region. He advised deputationists to remain mindful that they represent India in a foreign country and must respect local laws, customs, and traditions, while stressing physical fitness, readiness for long duty hours, adherence to assigned roles, and proactive grievance redressal.
Shri Ram Singh, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs highlighted operational changes introduced for Haj 2026 and emphasized that the orientation program is essential in view of updated Kingdom of Saudi Arab guidelines and procedural reforms. He further informed that new technological interventions, including the Haj Suvidha App and smart wearable devices, have been introduced to enhance safety, tracking, and service delivery. He stressed that deputationists must familiarize themselves with updated operational protocols and ensure seamless coordination on the ground.
The session was further followed by sessions on important themes such as Overview of Haj Management in KSA & Pilgrim Issues; Roles and Duties of Deputationists, International Health Issues and Healthcare arrangements for Haj in KSA; Pilgrim Management (Do’s and Don’ts); HMIS Portal and Haj Suvidha App ; followed by a question hour Session.The programme concluded with an interactive Question Hour alongwith Ministry Officials and resource persons, followed by a Vote of Thanks by Director (Haj), Ministry of Minority Affairs.
The Orientation-cum-Training Programme reflects the continued commitment of the Ministry of Minority Affairs to strengthening preparedness, enhancing coordination among stakeholders, and ensuring a seamless Haj experience for Indian pilgrims in 2026.
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