A two-day training programme for State Haj Inspectors (SHIs) commenced today at Haj House, Mumbai. The training session, being conducted on 24 and 25 January, aims to comprehensively prepare SHIs for their roles and responsibilities during the forthcoming Haj season in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

The programme focuses on familiarising the SHIs with operational protocols, coordination mechanisms, welfare measures, and on-ground challenges to ensure smooth facilitation and effective support for Indian Haj pilgrims.

Addressing the inaugural session, Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs, emphasised the critical role played by State Haj Inspectors in ensuring a safe, smooth and dignified Haj experience for pilgrims. He urged the SHIs to maintain a high level of patience, remain vigilant at all times, and adopt a natural, compassionate and service-oriented attitude while assisting Hajis during their stay in KSA. The Secretary underlined that the conduct and responsiveness of SHIs directly impact the overall experience and well-being of the pilgrims.

The training session was also addressed by Shri Sahnavas C, CEO, Haj Committee of India, who highlighted operational aspects and coordination with various stakeholders during Haj. Shri Nazeem Ahmed, Director (Haj), Ministry of Minority Affairs, briefed the participants on administrative procedures, standard operating protocols, and the importance of timely grievance redressal.

Health and safety aspects during Haj were covered by Dr. L. Swasthicharan, Deputy Director General, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, who sensitised the SHIs on public health preparedness, preventive measures, and coordination with medical teams to address health-related issues of pilgrims.

The training programme includes detailed sessions on pilgrim facilitation, accommodation and transport management, health and safety protocols, emergency response, coordination with Saudi authorities, and use of digital platforms for effective monitoring and grievance redressal.

The two-day programme will conclude tomorrow, 25 January, with interactive sessions and discussions aimed at further strengthening the preparedness of State Haj Inspectors for the upcoming Haj season.

***

AK/MR