May 4: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today flagged off the first batch of Haj pilgrims from Srinagar International Airport, marking the commencement of the sacred journey for pilgrims from the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
Extending heartfelt wishes, the LG interacted with the departing pilgrims and prayed for their safe travel and spiritually fulfilling experience. “The Haj is a divine call and a life-long aspiration. The government remains committed to ensuring all necessary arrangements for a smooth and safe pilgrimage,” he said.
This year, 3622 pilgrims from Jammu & Kashmir and 242 from Ladakh will undertake the Haj. From May 4 to May 15, a total of 11 flights will operate from Srinagar, facilitating travel for approximately 3132 pilgrims from J&K.
On arrival, pilgrims will be received by the Consulate General of India, Ministry of External Affairs at Jeddah. The LG also acknowledged the coordinated efforts of all stakeholders, including civil and police administrations, airport authorities, and the J&K Haj Committee.
The flag-off event was attended by senior officials including Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister; Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; IGP Vidhi Kumar Birdi; DC Budgam Akshay Labroo, and other dignitaries.