Digital, Portal-Based and AI-Integrated Systems
Opening the conference, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar called for all Haj-related operations to move to fully digital, portal-based platforms with AI integration to eliminate manual processes. He said digital systems must support pilgrims from the application stage through post-Haj services, offering seamless access to information, assistance and secure financial transactions.
The Ministerial direction aims to reduce paperwork, speed up grievance redressal and improve service delivery through automation, real-time tracking and predictive support tools tailored to pilgrims’ needs.
Immediate Refunds and Professional Financial Management
In a major operational decision, Dr. Kumar ordered the Haj Committee to immediately refund 75% of all pending dues to pilgrims. The remaining 25% will be processed after verification, due diligence and audit. The move is intended to restore trust among pilgrims and demonstrate a commitment to financial accountability.
To professionalise accounting, the HCoI was asked to engage a Financial Management Services (FMS) firm to manage accounting, reconciliation and 24×7 transaction support. The objective is to give pilgrims clear, real-time access to payment records and an always-available self-service channel for financial queries.
Focus on Pilgrim Comfort and Accessibility
State Haj Committee representatives and other stakeholders highlighted on-ground challenges faced by pilgrims, including long travel distances to embarkation points and accessibility issues for elderly and specially-abled travellers.
The HCoI assured action in coordination with state authorities to improve logistics, introduce disability-friendly facilities, reduce transit times and streamline embarkation procedures. CEO Shanavas C. confirmed the Committee’s intent to make Haj 2026 smoother and more pilgrim-centric.
Safety, Remembrance and International Coordination
The conference opened with a two-minute silence in memory of pilgrims who died in the Medina bus accident on November 17, 2025. Officials reiterated the priority of pilgrim safety and said that digital systems will also support incident response and faster communication with overseas agencies.
Joint Secretary Ram Singh, who recently visited the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, shared inputs on operational coordination and local facilitation to ensure smoother movement and support for Indian pilgrims in KSA.
Next Steps and Implementation
Officials outlined several short-term actions: rollout of an integrated Haj portal, onboarding of an FMS partner, targeted accessibility upgrades at embarkation hubs, and a public communications campaign that explains refunds and new digital services.
State-level committees will be asked to submit progress reports and implementation timelines. The Ministry reaffirmed that enhanced digital tools, combined with financial transparency and logistic improvements, will form the backbone of Haj 2026 readiness.
