Has Andhra Pradesh’s NDA Government Extended Rs 1 Lakh Aid for Hajj Pilgrims?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the NDA government in Andhra Pradesh has allocated Rs 1 lakh each to Hajj pilgrims, fulfilling an important election promise. With applications for Hajj 2026 open until August 7, potential pilgrims are encouraged to opt for Vijayawada as their embarkation point to receive this financial aid.
Key Takeaways
- The NDA government has approved Rs 1 lakh for Hajj pilgrims.
- Financial aid is available for those choosing Vijayawada as their embarkation point.
- Applications for Hajj 2026 must be submitted by August 7.
- 72 pilgrims will benefit from the sanctioned funds.
- Changes to embarkation preferences are permitted for existing applicants.
Amaravati, Aug 5 (NationPress) The NDA administration in Andhra Pradesh has allocated funds to honor its election commitment of providing Rs 1 lakh financial aid to Hajj pilgrims.
The state has sanctioned Rs 72 lakh specifically for those pilgrims choosing Vijayawada as their embarkation point for Hajj-2025.
According to Minorities Welfare Minister N. Md Farooq, the TDP-led government has successfully delivered on its electoral promise made last year.
This financial support will be extended to all pilgrims opting for Vijayawada as their primary embarkation location; however, they will need to travel to Saudi Arabia via Hyderabad due to the cancellation of flights from Vijayawada caused by low passenger numbers.
A total of 72 pilgrims selected Vijayawada as their first choice, and the government will provide Rs 1 lakh to each of them, the minister stated in a press release.
Farooq also announced that those intending to embark on Hajj 2026 must submit their applications online by August 7, and he encouraged applicants to select Vijayawada as their first choice.
He further mentioned that individuals who have already submitted applications can alter their embarkation point to Vijayawada to qualify for the Rs 1 lakh financial assistance from the state.
During the previous Assembly elections, N. Chandrababu Naidu, president of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), pledged that if elected, the coalition would offer Rs 1 lakh to each Hajj pilgrim.
This promise was made during a meeting with the Muslim community in Nellore.
“Immediately after the NDA assumes power in the state, every Muslim traveling to Mecca for Hajj will receive Rs 1 lakh in financial aid,” Naidu stated.
The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is comprised of TDP, BJP, and Jana Sena.
Naidu also committed to providing a monthly honorarium of Rs 10,000 for Imams and Rs 5,000 for muezzins, with funds recently allocated to fulfill this promise.
The coalition government is also maintaining a 4 percent reservation for Muslims in education and employment under the Backward Classes (E) category.
Point of View
The NDA government's decision to provide financial aid for Hajj pilgrims underscores its commitment to supporting minority communities. This initiative not only honors electoral promises but also addresses the socio-economic challenges faced by pilgrims. It's a critical step towards inclusivity and empowerment in a diverse nation like India.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the financial aid amount for Hajj pilgrims?
The financial aid amount approved for Hajj pilgrims is Rs 1 lakh each.
How many pilgrims will benefit from this aid?
A total of 72 pilgrims who selected Vijayawada as their embarkation point will benefit from this aid.
What is the deadline for Hajj 2026 applications?
The deadline for submitting applications for Hajj 2026 is August 7.
Can applicants change their embarkation point?
Yes, those who have already submitted applications can change their embarkation point to Vijayawada to qualify for the aid.
What other promises has the NDA government made?
The NDA government has also pledged a monthly honorarium for Imams and muezzins, alongside maintaining a 4 percent reservation for Muslims in education and employment.
