The Centre is planning to introduce advanced artificial intelligence (AI)-driven systems for Haj 2027, including multilingual voice support, automated document verification and real-time grievance redressal, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju said on Thursday.
Reviewing the recently concluded Haj pilgrimage, Rijiju said that preparations for Hajj 2027 had already begun, with artificial intelligence set to play a crucial role from the inception stage to execution.
“We have reviewed the emerging role of AI interventions to strengthen end-to-end Haj pilgrim management, including a 24×7 multilingual voice-based support system in Hindi, Urdu and major regional languages, AI-assisted applications and document verification, demand modelling for flight allocation across embarkation points, and real-time grievance tracking and escalation. These are envisaged for phased implementation, in line with the government’s push towards a technology-enabled Haj,” the minister said.
He added that the Hajj Policy 2027 would be announced soon.
Rijiju said Hajj 2026 saw the introduction of several pilgrim-centric measures, with 4,500 grievances resolved so far. He said the number of deaths during the pilgrimage also reduced from 200 in 2024 to less than 90 this year.
“Hajj this year has been the best as compared to recent years, with the government working round-the-clock to make it a memorable experience for the pilgrims. For instance, sofa-cum-beds were provided in Mina. A total of 62,500 pilgrims travelled from Makkah to Madinah by high-speed railway, considerably shortening the journey. A 20-day Short Haj Package was also introduced, which was availed by about 10,500 pilgrims, mainly working professionals,” the Minister said.
Rijiju also said the Indian Haj Mission received two Labbaytum Awards from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah under the “Best Haj Coordination and Communication” category.
Taking a leaf from Saudi Arabia, the Ministry of Minority Affairs is planning to deploy advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and digital ecosystems to manage the Hajj pilgrimage, and ensure the safety and efficiency of worshippers.
Saudi uses technologies like predictive crowd control, smart surveillance, and multilingual robotics across Mecca and the holy sites.
Asked about reports of theft of luggage of Hajj pilgrims in Ahmedabad, Lucknow and other places, Rijiju alleged that some political elements were fabricating such stories to jeopardise the momentum of the pilgrimage.
“We have come across a few social media reels showing the ‘so-called’ poor facilities during the Hajj. For instance, a few elderly were shown saying that the AI-empowered wrist-watches were not working properly. The ministry tried to contact those shown in the video, and got to know that their watches were not properly recharged, and the issue was resolved. Secondly, Hajj pilgrims landing at Srinagar airport complained that they were asked to cut down on their luggage. We intervened in the matter, and were informed that the runway maintenance was going on and NOTAM payload limitations were at place at Srinagar airport,” he said.
“But, there are many political elements who want to portray the government’s Hajj experience in a negative manner, and people should be aware of it,” he added.
