1st batch of J&K pilgrims to return on June 17 as Hajj 2025 concludes smoothly –

As the annual Hajj pilgrimage 2025 concludes, the first batch of pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir is all set to return on the 17th of June. Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that Executive Officer J&K Haj Committee, Dr Shujhat Qureshi, said the initial flight will bring back 178 pilgrims, marking the beginning of the return phase for the 3,606 pilgrims from the region who performed the pilgrimage this year. Reflecting on the overall arrangements, Dr. Qureshi said, “This year’s Hajj went better than expected. The facilities provided, especially during sacred sites, were much improved compared to last year.” The Hajj 2025 formally came to an end after pilgrims completed the ritual of stoning at the three Jamarat in Mina and then left the Tent City for Makkah to perform the last obligatory Hajj ritual, Tawaf Al-Wida (farewell Tawaf), as over 1.6 million pilgrims participated in this year’s Hajj. The Hajj authorities in Saudi Arabia have announced the successful conclusion of Hajj 2025, declaring it free of any security, health, or service-related incidents.