New Delhi, 13 December (H.S.): Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Saturday urged pilgrims planning Hajj 2026 through private operators to apply promptly, selecting only authorized Hajj Group Organizers (HGOs) and Private Tour Operators (PTOs) to avoid last-minute hassles.

The government advisory recommends completing bookings by January 15 next year, ensuring smoother arrangements. Rijiju emphasized that timely action prevents end-of-process difficulties, allowing seamless stays and services in Saudi Arabia.

Pilgrims should verify operators' government approval, registration status, and allocated quotas beforehand. Final deadlines for housing and service contracts in Saudi Arabia are set for February 1, 2026, enabling operators to secure hotels and transport efficiently.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar