Row Erupts After Haj Airfare Hiked By Rs 10,000, Centre Defends Move Citing West Asia Crisis

Last Updated:May 01, 2026, 15:56 IST

The increase was announced by the Haj Committee of India, which functions under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, through a circular issued on April 28.

A row has erupted after Haj airfares were hiked by Rs 10,000 for Indian pilgrims, with the Centre defending the move by citing the ongoing crisis in West Asia and a sharp rise in jet fuel costs.

The increase was announced by the Haj Committee of India, which functions under the Ministry of Minority Affairs, through a circular issued on April 28. It directed all pilgrims to pay an additional Rs 10,000 by May 15, regardless of their point of departure. The decision applies to those already registered for Haj 2026.

The government has said the hike comes after airlines sought a much steeper increase due to a surge in Aviation Turbine Fuel prices linked to geopolitical tensions in West Asia, involving the US and Israel-led war in Iran.

What Centre said?

According to the Ministry of Minority Affairs, airlines had originally asked for an additional $300 to $400 per pilgrim. In a statement shared on X, the ministry said it had negotiated the demand down to “just $100" per pilgrim.

“After extensive negotiation and due consultation with stakeholders, the Ministry of Minority Affairs approved a one-time revision of only USD $100 per pilgrim, irrespective of embarkation point — a saving of USD $200–$300 per pilgrim compared to what airlines originally sought," the statement said.

The ministry stressed that the decision was taken in good faithvand called it as an effort to shield pilgrims from a far higher burden. “This is not exploitation. This is the government absorbing pressure and protecting pilgrims from a far larger burden."

News india Row Erupts After Haj Airfare Hiked By Rs 10,000, Centre Defends Move Citing West Asia Crisis

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