Haj Committee Now Under Minority Affairs Ministry

The government has designated the Ministry of Minority Affairs as the nodal ministry for the Haj Committee, taking over from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). This change includes new rules and the nomination of officers from various ministries to the committee.

Key Changes

Nodal Ministry

The Ministry of Minority Affairs now oversees the Haj Committee, previously managed by the MEA.

Amendment Rules, 2024

The new rules are called the Haj Committee (Amendment) Rules, 2024, replacing “Ministry of External Affairs” with “Ministry of Minority Affairs” in the Haj Committee Rules, 2002.

Officer Nominations

Officers from the ministries of external affairs, home affairs, finance, and civil aviation will be nominated as ex-officio members of the committee.

Responsibilities of the Haj Division

Coordination

Manages coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Haj Committee of India (HCoI), and Consulate General of India (CGI) in Jeddah.

Administration

Handles matters related to the Haj Committee of India and the administration of the Haj Committee Act, 2002.

Approvals

Grants necessary approvals to Haj-related proposals from CGI, Jeddah.

Medical Support

Ensures the supply of medicines and medical equipment for hospitals/dispensaries set up by CGI, Jeddah, for pilgrims’ welfare.

Deputation

Oversees the selection of administrative and medical/paramedical staff for short-term deputation to CGI, Jeddah.

Private Tour Operators

Manages the registration of Private Tour Operators (PTOs) and allocation of Haj Quota to PTOs.

RTI and Legal Matters

Responds to RTIs, Parliament Questions, and court cases related to Haj matters.