Srinagar, May 4 -- Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday accompanied the first batch of 178 Hajj pilgrims, who left for the holy pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.

"Today, I had the honour of bidding a warm see-off to the first batch of 178 Hajj pilgrims from Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar. Wished them a safe, fulfilling journey and humbly requested prayers for peace and prosperity in our region," J&K CMO posted on X

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Manoj Sinha was also present to flag off the first batch of Hajj pilgrims.

The first batch is set to depart for Saudi Arabia's Mecca to undertake the annual holy pilgrimage to the Kaaba, a mandated religious duty.

At least 3,372 Hujjaj Karam, a title bestowed upon the...