Indian Haj Committee received two awards from Saudi Arabia for their exemplary performance. The Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju expressed appreciation for the coordination between the Ministry and the Indian Haj Committee.

"It is a matter of pride to share that for the first time, the Indian Haj Mission has received two prestigious 'Labbatum Awards' from the Saudi Ministry of Haj and Umrah for its outstanding work in Haj coordination and communication," he said.

"The successful conduct of the main phase of Haj 2026 demonstrates excellent coordination," he said. "I am grateful to Saudi Arabia for its continued support and excellent arrangements for the pilgrims." The Hajj pilgrimage from India for the year 2026 commenced on April 18, with the first batch of pilgrims departing for Saudi Arabia from various locations across the country.

Over 1.75 lakh pilgrims attended Haj this year. Some innovative concepts have been suggested for the future including Haj Suvidha App for improved digital access and Haj Suvidha Smart Wristbands for the first time to trace missing pilgrims. Also suggested is the new 20 days’ Haj option to make it convenient for pilgrims.