Srinagar, May 5, 2025: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha flagged off the first batch of 178 Haj pilgrims from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir at Srinagar International Airport on Sunday, May 4, 2025, marking the commencement of the sacred Haj pilgrimage for 2025. The emotional send-off at Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport was attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, senior officials, and members of the J&K Haj Committee, with families bidding tearful farewells to their loved ones embarking on this spiritual journey to Makkah.
Interacting with the pilgrims, Lieutenant Governor Sinha extended his heartfelt greetings and best wishes for a safe and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage. “The divine pilgrimage is a call from the Almighty and a cherished, life-long dream,” he said, emphasizing the significance of the journey. He prayed for peace, prosperity, and the well-being of Jammu and Kashmir and its people. Sinha reiterated the central government’s commitment to ensuring the best possible arrangements for the pilgrims’ well-being, stating, “The central government is committed to ensuring best possible arrangements for the well-being of pilgrims and their sacred pilgrimage.”
This year, approximately 3,622 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir, along with 242 from Ladakh, will undertake the Haj pilgrimage. Srinagar International Airport is set to operate 11 flights between May 4 and May 15, 2025, facilitating the travel of 3,132 pilgrims from J&K and Ladakh to Jeddah, where they will be received by the Consulate General of India. The J&K Haj Committee, led by Executive Officer Dr. Shujhat Quershi, has coordinated extensive arrangements, including check-in formalities, baggage screening, and customs clearance at Haj House in Bemina, Srinagar, to ensure a seamless experience. Special measures, such as air-conditioned coaches and dedicated counters, have been arranged at the airport for the pilgrims’ comfort.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who joined the Lieutenant Governor at the airport, expressed his hopes for the pilgrims’ well-being and urged them to pray for lasting peace and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir. Pilgrims expressed gratitude for the meticulous arrangements, with one stating, “We are thankful to the government for extending all necessary help. I will pray for lasting peace and happiness in Kashmir.” The collaborative efforts of the J&K administration, Airport Authority, and security agencies were lauded for ensuring a hassle-free departure process.
The first flight, carrying 178 pilgrims (96 men and 82 women), departed for Medina, marking the beginning of a journey that many described as a lifelong aspiration. “We have waited our whole life for this moment. I pray that Allah accepts our Hajj,” said a pilgrim from Srinagar. The departure was a poignant moment, with families at Haj House and the airport sharing prayers and emotions as their loved ones embarked on this sacred journey.
The central government, through the Ministry of Minority Affairs and the Haj Committee of India, has implemented measures to enhance the pilgrimage experience, including health, security, and emergency services. Training sessions have equipped pilgrims with essential guidance, and accommodations in Saudi Arabia have been upgraded for their comfort. The Lieutenant Governor acknowledged the support of all stakeholders, including civil and police administration, for the successful organization of the pilgrimage.