After Ind-Pak Ceasefire, second batch of Hajj pilgrims depart from Srinagar

After flights resumed post-Operation Sindoor disruptions, the second batch of Hajj pilgrims from Srinagar has left for Saudi Arabia.

Following the recent ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, the Hajj pilgrimage process resumed in Jammu and Kashmir. The second batch of pilgrims prepared for their departure from Srinagar to Saudi Arabia.

Special Hajj camps had been set up in Srinagar, where pilgrims completed the required formalities, including currency exchange. On the morning of May 14, the second group of pilgrims left from the Hajj House en route to the airport.

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The first batch had departed from Srinagar on May 4, 2025. However, due to Operation Sindoor, seven Hajj flights scheduled for May 7 and May 12 were cancelled. Flight operations resumed on Tuesday, May 13, with regular departures beginning the following day.

Earlier, on May 4, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha had flagged off the first batch of pilgrims from Srinagar International Airport. He interacted with the pilgrims and conveyed his best wishes for a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey.

“The holy pilgrimage of Hajj is a divine call and a lifelong dream for many. I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all pilgrims embarking on this sacred journey. The central government remains committed to ensuring the best possible arrangements for their welfare,” the Lieutenant Governor had said.

Along with 242 pilgrims from Ladakh, a total of 3,622 pilgrims from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir were scheduled to travel for Hajj this year.

LG Sinha also acknowledged and appreciated the contribution of all departments, agencies, and officials involved in the coordination and smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the annual Hajj pilgrimage remained a priority for the government. India’s Hajj quota rose from 1,36,020 in 2014 to 1,75,025 in 2025. In addition to the official quota, more than 52,000 slots were allocated to private tour operators. Owing to changes in Saudi guidelines, over 800 private operators were consolidated into 26 legal entities known as Consolidated Hajj Group Operators (CHGOs).