Kiren Rijiju Reviews Hajj 2025 Preparations to Ensure Fulfilment for Indian Pilgrims

Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju recently assessed the preparations for Hajj 2025 in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. His visit aimed to ensure a seamless and spiritually enriching pilgrimage for Indian pilgrims. Rijiju's trip, from June 11 to 14, included significant engagements related to the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage.

During his time in Saudi Arabia, Rijiju signed the Bilateral Agreement for Haj 2025 with Saudi Minister of Hajj & Umrah Tawfiq bin Fawzan AlRabiah. This agreement, signed on January 13, 2025, in Jeddah, allocates a quota of 1,75,025 for Indian pilgrims. The Union Minister also attended the inaugural session of the Hajj & Umrah Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah.

Hajj & Umrah Conference

The annual Hajj & Umrah Conference is organised by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj & Umrah. It features sessions and workshops led by key decision-makers, experts, and researchers in the sector. The conference facilitates the exchange of ideas and information on best practices in Hajj and Umrah services.

Rijiju also met with Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al Rabiah to discuss preparations for Haj-2025. They agreed to enhance mutual cooperation to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for Indian pilgrims. Additionally, Rijiju met Saleh bin Nasser Al Jassar, Saudi Minister for Transport & Logistics Services, to discuss improving transport and logistics services for Indian pilgrims.

Meetings with Saudi Officials

In Riyadh, Rijiju held discussions with Prince Saud bin Khalid bin Faisal Al Saud, Deputy Governor of Madinah Province. They talked about arrangements for Indian pilgrims during their stay in Madinah. The minister also reviewed transport arrangements, administrative setup, and healthcare facilities for pilgrims.

Rijiju visited the Indian Haj Pilgrims Office in Madinah and inspected the Haj Terminals at Jeddah and Madinah airports. He evaluated facilities available for pilgrim arrivals and departures as well as baggage handling processes.

Visit to Holy Sites

The minister travelled by train to Madinah to review Hajj arrangements and meet with the Governor of Madinah. He visited significant religious sites including Al Masjid Al Nabwi and Quba Mosque. Rijiju expressed his commitment on X to ensuring a smooth pilgrimage experience for all pilgrims.

"Committed to ensuring a smooth and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage experience for all pilgrims," Rijiju stated on X. He shared a picture featuring Al Masjid Al Nabawi in the background while visiting the holy city of Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah.

The visit underscored India's dedication to providing a fulfilling pilgrimage experience for its citizens undertaking Hajj. By strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia, India aims to enhance the overall experience for its pilgrims during this significant religious journey.