In a major relief for the Muslim community in Andhra Pradesh, the Ministry of Minority Affairs has officially reinstated Vijayawada as a Haj embarkation point.
The announcement follows a formal request by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju.
Responding positively, the Ministry issued official orders declaring Vijayawada an embarkation point for Haj pilgrims.
This means that pilgrims from Andhra Pradesh will no longer have to travel to other States to begin their sacred journey, significantly reducing both travel strain and associated costs.
Welcoming the decision, Sheikh Abdul Aziz, Chairman of the Andhra Pradesh Waqf Board and member of the State Haj Committee, expressed gratitude, and described the move as a “great relief” for Muslim pilgrims.
“Reinstating the embarkation point in Vijayawada is a long-awaited and much-needed step. It allows our brothers and sisters to start their Haj journey directly from our State,” he said.
Mr. Abdul Aziz added that the State Haj Committee, along with the Chief Minister, would work towards improving infrastructure and amenities at the Vijayawada embarkation point to better serve the needs of the pilgrims in the coming years, a press release said.
Published – July 31, 2025 04:35 am IST
