India’s Haj quota for 2025 has increased to 1,75,025 pilgrims, up from 1,36,020 in 2014, the Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA) announced on Tuesday. This hike comes as a result of sustained diplomatic efforts by the Indian government, particularly under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration, which has consistently emphasized support for the Haj pilgrimage.
In a post on social media platform X, the Ministry stated:
“The Government of India accords high priority to facilitating the Haj pilgrimage for Indian Muslims. Due to sustained efforts, India’s Haj quota has risen from 1,36,020 in 2014 to 1,75,025 in 2025—finalized annually by Saudi authorities.”
Quota Distribution and Preparations
Out of the total quota, 1,22,518 pilgrims will travel through the Haj Committee of India, which manages arrangements under the main government quota. The Ministry confirmed that all essential services and infrastructure—including flights, Mina camps, transportation, and accommodation—have been arranged in accordance with Saudi Arabian guidelines.
The remaining quota was allocated to 26 Combined Haj Group Operators (CHGOs). These CHGOs were formed after consolidating over 800+ private operators, in line with Saudi Arabia’s updated norms aimed at improving efficiency and safety during the pilgrimage.
Missed Deadlines and Government Intervention
Despite being allocated their quotas well in advance, the CHGOs reportedly failed to meet key Saudi deadlines, particularly those related to finalizing contracts for Mina camps, transportation, and accommodation. The Ministry highlighted that these delays prompted serious concerns from the Saudi Haj Ministry, especially regarding pilgrim safety during extreme heat conditions and limited space availability in Mina.
“The Saudi side informed that due to delays, Mina space was already occupied, and no deadline extensions would be given to any country this year,” the statement noted.
In response, the Government of India conducted high-level engagements with the Saudi authorities, including ministerial-level interventions, to resolve the issue.
Reopening of Haj Portal for 10,000 Pilgrims
As a result of these diplomatic efforts, the Saudi Haj Ministry has agreed to reopen the Haj (Nusuk) Portal to allow CHGOs to accommodate an additional 10,000 pilgrims based on current availability in Mina.
“MoMA has issued urgent directions to CHGOs to complete their process without delay,” the ministry added, urging CHGOs to act swiftly to secure arrangements for their pilgrims.
The Haj pilgrimage for 2025 is expected to take place between June 4 to June 9. India has expressed appreciation to Saudi Arabia for its cooperation and remains hopeful for additional concessions to accommodate even more pilgrims, should availability permit.