The first batch of 340 Hajis flew from Delhi on pilgrimage early this morning. With prayers for unity, peace, prosperity and harmony in nation and the entire world, Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs (Independent Charge) and Parliamentary Affairs Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi flagged off 1st batch of Haj pilgrims from Indira Gandhi International Airport’s Haj Terminal here. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Naqvi said that Haj pilgrimage is a cherished desire of every Muslim in his life time. Extending good wishes on behalf of the Prime Minister and himself,Shri Naqvi urged Hajis to pray for peace, prosperity, harmony and brotherhood in our great nation and the entire world .
Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Shri Manish Sisodia, Haj Committee of India Chairman Chaudhary Mehboob Ali Qaiser, Minority Affairs Ministry Secretary Shri Rakesh Garg, Haj Committee of India Member and Delhi Coordinator Shri H B Kazmi and others were present on the occasion. A total of 340 Haj pilgrims proceeded for the pilgrimage at 0230 hrs today. For Haj 2016, a total of 12,500 Haj pilgrims will be proceeding from Delhi to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, by Air India’s 37 charter flights. Around 8690 Haj pilgrims will be from Uttar Pradesh and rest will be from Delhi, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttrakhand and Haryana. For Haj 2016, total 1,00,020 Haj pilgrims will be facilitated from 21 points across India through Haj Commiittee. Apart from this, 36,000 Haj pilgrims will proceed through the private tour operators.