Applications Now Open for Haj 2027; New Policy Emphasizes Pilgrim Services and Technology

The Ministry of Minority Affairs has unveiled the Haj Policy 2027 and launched the application process for pilgrims seeking to undertake the pilgrimage next year. Union Minister for Minority Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju released the policy, opening the registration window through both the Haj Committee of India portal and the Haj Suvidha App.

Prospective pilgrims can now register online using either platform, with the ministry emphasizing that the digital approach streamlines the application experience and expands accessibility across the country.

Seat Allocation and Quota Structure

The quota distribution between the Haj Committee of India and the private sector maintains the established 70:30 ratio. Under this arrangement, the Haj Committee of India receives 1,22,518 seats, while the private sector is allocated 52,507 seats for Haj 2027.

Enhanced Pilgrim-Centric Initiatives

The new policy builds upon several amenities introduced during Haj 2026, including sofa-cum-beds at accommodation sites in Mina, high-speed rail connectivity between Makkah and Madinah, and hotel-standard lodging facilities in Makkah. The Short Haj Package continues to be available for those seeking a condensed pilgrimage experience.

The government has strengthened oversight by improving the State Haj Inspector ratio, increasing it from one inspector per 150 pilgrims to one per 135 pilgrims. Additionally, applicants from the top 20 per cent of the Haj 2026 waiting list will receive priority consideration for Haj 2027.

Healthcare and Embarkation Improvements

Medical screening protocols have been realigned with Saudi Arabia's health guidelines, with stricter assessments now in place for pilgrims managing chronic conditions. Recognizing substantial demand, Kolkata has been added as a new embarkation point for the upcoming pilgrimage.

Artificial Intelligence Integration

The ministry is deploying AI-powered solutions to enhance pilgrim services across multiple functions. These systems will facilitate application processing, document verification, demand forecasting, and grievance resolution. A multilingual AI assistant is currently in development to offer 24/7 support via voice and text interfaces, enabling pilgrims to obtain guidance on registration, payments, travel arrangements, accommodation details, baggage policies, and grievance redressal.

The policy announcement came following a Haj review meeting convened by the Union Minister on June 18, which evaluated the Haj 2026 arrangements and established the strategic framework for the 2027 pilgrimage. Officials stated that these measures collectively aim to make the Haj experience safer, more transparent, and more user-friendly for Indian pilgrims.