AI-powered pilgrim services introduced
J&K pilgrims can apply till July 20
JKHC issues detailed guidelines
Srinagar, Jun 22: After the successful culmination of Haj-2026, the Union government on Monday unveiled the Haj-2027 policy, planning an introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI)- based services and enhanced pilgrim support for the pilgrims.
The Centre has announced plans to introduce AI-based systems for document verification, flight allocation, grievance redressal and pilgrim management.
A multilingual AI-powered virtual assistant is also being developed to provide round-the-clock support in Hindi, Urdu and other regional languages, helping pilgrims with applications, payments, travel information, accommodation details and emergency assistance.
Building on reforms introduced during Haj-2026, the new policy seeks to further improve pilgrim comfort and safety. Among the key measures is an increase in field-level support, with the ratio of State Haj Inspectors improved from one inspector for every 150 pilgrims to one for every 135 pilgrims.
The policy places renewed emphasis on health screening, aligning medical examinations with Saudi guidelines and strengthening checks for pilgrims suffering from chronic illnesses.
Officials said the AI platform is expected to reduce errors, improve transparency and lessen dependence on intermediaries, particularly benefiting first-time and elderly pilgrims.
The Ministry is also working towards integrating the system with Saudi Arabia’s Nusuk platform to provide seamless services throughout the pilgrimage journey.
The Jammu and Kashmir State Haj Committee (JKSHC) has issued detailed guidelines for Haj-2027 (1448 Hijri) following the announcement of the Haj Policy 2027 by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, while inviting applications from intending pilgrims across the Union Territory.
According to the notification, online applications for Haj-2027 will remain open from June 22 to July 20, 2026, through the Haj Committee of India website and the Haj Suvidha mobile application.
One of the key eligibility conditions is passport validity. Applicants must possess a machine-readable Indian passport that remains valid up to at least December 31, 2027, and is valid at the time of application.
The Haj Committee has also specified that a pilgrimage group can consist of a maximum of five members. The group leader, or cover head, must be a male member aged 18 years or above. The cover head’s mobile number must remain active and linked to WhatsApp, as all important updates and communications will be sent through the registered number.
Applicants have been directed to upload scanned copies of mandatory documents, including passport pages, passport-sized photographs with a white background, bank account details and proof of address. The bank account must be active and registered in the name of the cover head.
The policy further requires each applicant to nominate a close relative, preferably a son, daughter, parent or spouse, who can act on the pilgrim’s behalf if required.
As per the schedule, the digital random selection process is expected to be conducted in the last week of July. Pilgrims selected provisionally will have to deposit an advance amount of Rs 1.52 lakh on or before August 10, 2026. Authorities have made it clear that no extension in payment deadlines will be granted.
The Haj Committee has also strongly discouraged cancellation of allotted seats, warning that such withdrawals create operational difficulties and may attract penalties under the Haj-2027 guidelines.
Officials urged intending pilgrims to apply only after carefully assessing their preparedness and commitment to undertake the sacred pilgrimage. The committee has launched dedicated awareness and communication channels, including an official WhatsApp group, to ensure the timely dissemination of updates and guidance throughout the application process.
