“In 2024, Haj Pilgrimage Applications Plummet Due to Soaring Costs: J&K Haj Committee Adopts Strategies for Affordability”
Contrary to the previous year’s robust figures, the J&K Haj committee faces a significant decline in Haj pilgrimage applications for 2024, with only 7000 received out of the anticipated 11500 quota.
Comparatively, the previous year witnessed a thriving 14200 applications, with 12067 pilgrims successfully undertaking the sacred journey. Sources indicate that the escalating costs associated with Haj are driving potential pilgrims towards the more cost-effective Umrah pilgrimage. An aspiring pilgrim expressed, “The overarching factor contributing to this decline is the inflation affecting the overall affordability of the pilgrimage.”
In response to the financial challenges faced by prospective pilgrims, authorities are recommending applicants to consider embarkation from Delhi and Mumbai, expecting these locations to be less expensive than the Srinagar embarkation point.
To alleviate the burden on applicants, the application process has been made free of cost since last year. Sources stated, “The initiative aims to support pilgrims who may later cancel their pilgrimage due to unforeseen reasons and those who are not selected through the qurra (lottery system).”
Notably, in 2015, 2016, and 2017, a significant number of applicants (25000 to 30000) submitted their Haj applications, but only around 11000 performed the pilgrimage. This trend underscores the necessity for measures to ensure a more accurate representation of committed pilgrims and reduce strain on both applicants and the pilgrimage process.
An official from Hajj Committee J&K informed KNS that 441 applications have been received under the reserved category for 70+ age group applicants, and 44 applications from ladies who wish to undertake the holy journey with Mehram.
According to official sources, the application window is open until January 15, 2024, accessible at www.hajcommittee.org. Authorities remain hopeful that the combination of free applications and alternative embarkation points will stimulate increased interest, fostering a more inclusive participation in the sacred obligation of Haj.
