KATHMANDU: Minister for Water Supply Pradeep Yadav bid farewell to Nepali Muslim pilgrims departing for Hajj at Tribhuvan International Airport. Minister Yadav, offering flowers and food to the pilgrims, expressed his hope that their journey would inspire religious faith and humanity.

This year, 1,171 Nepali Muslims are set to undertake the pilgrimage, with 55 pilgrims departing in the first phase on Jestha 30. Hajj, a sacred Islamic ritual, is a lifetime aspiration for Muslims worldwide and takes place annually in Mecca and Medina, Saudi Arabia, attracting millions of devotees.

Travel arrangements for Nepali pilgrims are managed by the Central Hajj Committee based on recommendations from district-level committees.