Preparations begin; Centre plans AI-enabled services, improved facilities for pilgrims
Srinagar, Jun 19: After the successful culmination of Hajj-2026, the Union Government is mulling to announce the new Hajj-2027 policy soon.
Officials informed Rising Kashmir that the preparations for Hajj-2027 have been initiated, while the new Hajj Policy is expected to be announced shortly, which would pave the way for an early application process for prospective pilgrims across the country.
“Once the Haj Policy-2027 is unveiled, the Haj Committee of India (HCoI) will invite applications from intending pilgrims, allowing authorities to begin the selection and planning process well in advance,” they said.
During a high-level review of Hajj-2026 arrangements and future planning, the government examined measures aimed at enhancing the pilgrimage experience through greater use of technology. A key focus of the discussions was the phased introduction of artificial intelligence (AI)-based interventions to streamline end-to-end Hajj pilgrim management.
The proposed initiatives include a 24×7 multilingual voice-based support system in Hindi, Urdu and major regional languages, AI-assisted verification of applications and documents, demand modelling for flight allocation across embarkation points, and real-time grievance tracking and escalation mechanisms.
Officials said the technology-driven initiatives are part of the government’s broader push towards a more efficient and pilgrim-friendly Hajj management system, ensuring timely assistance and improved coordination at every stage of the pilgrimage.
After reviewing the roadmap for Hajj-2027, all the concerned ministries, agencies, HCoI and other stakeholders have been directed to begin preparations on priority.
The exercise will cover quota allocation, eligibility norms, health requirements, flight operations, accommodation, transportation, Mina facilities, medical preparedness and wider adoption of digital technologies.
Sustained coordination with the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and adherence to prescribed timelines would be crucial for the successful conduct of Hajj-2027.
According to the schedule, preparations will culminate in the signing of the bilateral Hajj Agreement for 2027 between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on November 7, 2026, laying the foundation for arrangements aimed at ensuring greater comfort, safety and health security for Indian pilgrims.
