First three batches of Haj pilgrims leave Delhi

The first three Makkah-bound flights carrying Indian Haj pilgrims would take off from the capital Wednesday. "The first Saudi Airlines flight will take off at 1.30 p.m. from the Indira Gandhi International Airport's Haj Terminal with 270 pilgrims," an official of the Delhi State Haj Committee said. At least 20,000 pilgrims would go to the holy city of Makkah from the national capital alone for performing Haj later next month, the official said. "The last flight from Delhi is scheduled for Dec 19." Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel and Minister of State for External Affairs E. Ahamed would see off the flights along with other top officials.

This year, about 110,000 Haj pilgrims would benefit from the Indian government's subsidy scheme for the pilgrims. With 140 million, Muslims constitute 14 percent of India's billion plus population. India is home to the world's largest Muslim population after Indonesia. The government spent nearly Rs.1.80 billion on the last Haj and the increase in the number could push this expenditure by at least 10 percent. Transportation of pilgrims from other cities like Kolkata, Lucknow, Patna, Guwahati, and Srinagar would begin this week. The number of pilgrims from India is also likely to increase following Saudi Arabia positive response to New Delhi's request to allow 10,000 more people to Makkah.

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