Riyadh: In a strategic mobilization to ensure the welfare of Indian pilgrims, Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs Dr. Chandra Shekhar Kumar has conducted a comprehensive diplomatic mission to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The visit serves as a critical systemic intervention to synchronize bilateral logistics ahead of Haj 2026, focusing on the socio-legal and medical safeguards required for a seamless pilgrimage.
Dr. Kumar engaged in high-level deliberations with the Saudi Assistant Vice Minister of Health, the Vice Minister of Transport, the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, and the CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority. A primary focal point of these discussions was the moral urgency of medical preparedness. Dr. Kumar formally advocated for the expedited clearance of essential medicines dispatched from India and secured commitments for continued institutional support for the Indian medical teams stationed in the Kingdom.
The delegation’s evidence-based narrative also addressed the complexities of international aviation. Coordination with Saudi authorities focused on optimizing slot allocations for the five designated carriers—Saudia Airlines, Flyadeal, Flynas, Air India Express, and Akasa Air. This proactive planning is intended to mitigate transit delays and ensure the structural integrity of the transport corridor for the thousands of Indian citizens participating in the spiritual journey.
Expressing appreciation for the sustained cooperation of the Saudi authorities, Dr. Kumar emphasized that the Government of India remains committed to a well-organized and safe Haj. This visit reinforces the layered causality of successful governance, where early administrative alignment and digital integration, such as the Haj Suvidha App, are utilized to protect the rights and health of pilgrims on a global stage.