Srinagar, Jan. 17 -- The Union Ministry of Minority Affairs has extended the deadline for completing the Hajj 2026 booking formalities through Hajj group organisers and private tour operators till January 25, 2026, offering relief to thousands of pilgrims who were struggling to meet the earlier cut-off.

According to an official circular issued by the Hajj Division of the Ministry, the extension has been granted in view of multiple representations received from pilgrims and other stakeholders seeking additional time to complete mandatory procedures, news agency KNO reported.

It said the ministry clarified that the extension is final and has been provided in the larger public interest to avoid inconvenience to pilgrims.

During the extend...