Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday personally received the first batch of Hujjaaj returning from Saudi Arabia at Srinagar International Airport, marking the beginning of Jammu & Kashmir's Haj-2026 homecoming season.
The inaugural return flight touched down at Srinagar Airport carrying 144 pilgrims — 74 men and 70 women — who successfully completed the sacred pilgrimage. The Chief Minister warmly congratulated the returning devotees and expressed hope that their prayers would bring peace and prosperity to Jammu & Kashmir and the nation.
CM Abdullah, who had earlier written to the Union Aviation Minister flagging concerns over delayed baggage handling, directed authorities on the occasion to ensure smooth transportation, efficient baggage delivery and all necessary support services for returning pilgrims.
A total of 4,641 pilgrims from Jammu & Kashmir performed Haj this year, of whom 3,952 are expected to return via Srinagar. Return flights are scheduled to operate daily between June 2 and June 16, 2026.
Senior officials including Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary Dheeraj Gupta and representatives of the J&K Haj Committee were present at the airport to welcome the pilgrims home.
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