Tue Sep 10 18:08:00 UTC 2024: ## Hajj 2025 Application Deadline Extended to September 23rd

**Srinagar:** The Haj Committee of India (HCoI) has extended the deadline for submitting online applications for Hajj 2025 to September 23rd, 2024, following public demand. Initially, applications were due on September 9th.

The decision was made by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, citing public demand for more time to apply. Applicants are reminded to possess a valid Indian passport, issued on or before September 23rd, 2024, and valid until January 15th, 2026.

Applications can be submitted online through the HCoI website (hajcommittee.gov.in) or via the “Haj Suvidha” mobile app. The HCoI encourages applicants to carefully review the Hajj 2025 guidelines before submitting their application.

In 2024, 7,008 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir participated in the Hajj pilgrimage. Despite reports of “poor” arrangements by some, officials defended the facilities, highlighting improvements in accommodation and quality compared to the previous year.

However, they acknowledged challenges during the Hajj 2024 pilgrimage, including scorching heat on Arafat day and traffic congestion in the Mashair region.

The HCoI has also released draft guidelines for Hajj 2025, which include a key modification extending the age limit for companions. Under the revised policy, companions between the ages of 60 and 65 are now eligible to apply, provided they are a spouse, sibling, or child of a pilgrim aged 65 or above.

This policy also allows repeaters to accompany female pilgrims aged 65 or above, including those without a “Mehram” (male guardian), subject to additional fees. Female companions for these pilgrims must be aged between 45 and 60 years.

Hajj seat allocation remains unchanged, with 70% reserved for the HCoI and 30% allocated to Haj Group Organisers (HGOs).

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