Srinagar, May 4, 2025 – Chief Minister Omar Abdullah bid a heartfelt farewell to the first batch of 178 Hajj 2025 pilgrims—96 men and 82 women—departing from Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar, for their sacred journey to Mecca. Joined by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Abdullah wished the pilgrims a safe and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage, humbly requesting their prayers for peace and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir.
This year, 3,622 pilgrims from the region will undertake Hajj, scheduled for June 4–9, a 70% decline from 12,079 in 2023, driven by rising costs, Saudi Arabia’s 15% VAT, and the 2018 end of India’s Hajj subsidy. Saudi regulations impose fines of 20,000 Saudi Riyals (INR 4.5 lakh) for unauthorized pilgrims, with facilitators facing up to 100,000 Riyals (INR 22.7 lakh) and potential deportation. India supports the pilgrimage with 620 officials in Jeddah, managing the largest overseas logistical operation for 1,22,518 Indian pilgrims.
The Jammu and Kashmir Hajj Committee ensured smooth arrangements, with pilgrims vaccinated and briefed on baggage restrictions. Departures will continue until May 15, with 11 flights planned. Abdullah’s presence underscored the region’s commitment to supporting its pilgrims, despite recent challenges like the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which he addressed separately, condemning terrorism and prioritizing unity over political demands like statehood.
