On Sunday, India’s Union Minister of Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, confirmed that 175,025 Indian pilgrims will be allowed to perform the Hajj in 2026. The figure was announced after a high‑level meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Hajj and Umrah Minister, Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al‑Rabiah, in Jeddah.
During the visit, Rijiju and his Saudi counterpart reviewed progress on Hajj logistics and signed a new Bilateral Hajj Agreement. The deal locks in the 2026 quota and promises improvements in transportation, accommodation and health services for Indian Muslims.
Rijiju travelled to Saudi Arabia from November 7 to 9 with a delegation that included MEA officials and members of the Minority Affairs Ministry. He met with Indian embassy staff in Riyadh and the consulate in Jeddah to ensure everything stayed on track.
The minister also toured key sites in Jeddah and Taif, including Terminal 1 and the Haramain Station. He spoke with members of the Indian community there, learning firsthand about the facilities available for pilgrims. He praised the collaborative work of the Indian missions and the Saudi authorities in making the pilgrimage safe and comfortable.
“This is a major step in deepening India‑Saudi relations,” Rijiju said in a post on X. “We have secured a significant quota for our pilgrims and will keep improving the pilgrimage experience.”
The bilateral partnership has expanded beyond Hajj, covering cultural exchanges and community welfare, the statement added. The agreement underscores the shared commitment of both nations to foster stronger ties and ensure the wellbeing of millions of Indian pilgrims each year.
Source: ianslive
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