PM Modi to Discuss Hajj 2025 Quota with Saudi Crown Prince as 620 Deputationists Prepare to Assist Indian Pilgrims

In preparation for Hajj 2025, India has appointed 620 deputationists to support the Consulate General of India in Jeddah with Hajj management in Saudi Arabia. The group comprises 266 administrative and 354 medical personnel.

Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs, George Kurian, inaugurated a two-day orientation-cum-training programme for these deputationists on April 22 at the SCOPE Complex in New Delhi. The training includes modules on Hajj operations, crowd and disaster management, health concerns, and use of the Haj Suvidha App. Kurian highlighted the essential role deputationists play in ensuring the smooth execution of one of the largest international pilgrimages managed by the Indian government.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a state visit to Saudi Arabia at the invitation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud. During his visit, PM Modi is expected to address the Hajj quota for Indian pilgrims. India’s quota for 2025 has increased to 175,025, up from 136,020 in 2014. However, logistical delays involving Combined Haj Group Operators may prevent around 42,000 Indians from making the pilgrimage this year.

India and Saudi Arabia are also poised to sign at least six major agreements across sectors such as space, energy, health, science, culture, and advanced technology, with over a dozen MoUs currently under negotiation.