Lucknow, Aug. 1 -- Concerned over the gap between the number of applications and Uttar Pradesh's allocated quota over the last few years, the Yogi Adityanath government is gearing up to increase the number of applications for Haj-2026.

Only 13,000 applications have been received for Haj-2026 so far though Uttar Pradesh's quota for the same is around 30,000. The last date for submission of applications has been extended by seven days till August 7.

Last year, 15,000 Haj applications were received against a quota of 30,000 and 13,600 individuals went on the pilgrimage. In 2024, around 17,000 Haj applications were received from the state. The number was 26,000 in 2023.

Haj is a key pillar of Islam and performing this pilgrimage is obligat...