Srinagar, Oct 10: All 4,313 applications from Jammu and Kashmir for the Hajj pilgrimage in 2025 have been accepted. However, it is the second consecutive year that the region has witnessed significant decline in applications, with the numbers falling far below the allocated quota.
Dr Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi, Executive Officer, J&K State Hajj Committee said that all 4313 applications which were submitted were selected for the pilgrimage as This year, for the second consecutive time, no draw of lots for the Hajj pilgrimage were held.
“Earlier in mid-August, the last date was set September 9 for applications but extended it twice due to a lackluster response, ultimately closing applications on September 30, 2024. All applicants were selected automatically for Hajj 2025,” he said.
Dr Shujaat said the committee has urged all selected pilgrims to submit their first instalment of the Hajj fee of Rs 1,30000 by October 31, 2024. The fee details and payment procedures have been communicated to the applicants through official channels, he said. It can be submitted through online mode or through SBI branches.
About decline in total quota, Dr Shujaat said J&K had been allocated quota from GoIwas 5918 and more 2000 can be allocated. We had only received 4313 applications and they were selected.
The following year, 2024, marked the beginning of this downward trend, with only 7,800 applications submitted for an increased allocation of 11,500 seats (9,500 regular seats plus an additional 2,000). This was the first instance where a draw of lots was deemed unnecessary, as the number of applicants fell below the available quota.
