Ramadan from February 18; Assam Haj Committee to begin pilgrim training after fasting month

Chairman of the Assam State Haj Committee, Nekibur Zaman, on Monday, February 16, said that the month of Ramadan will begin from February 18, with Roza (fasting) to commence from February 19. He added that once Ramadan concludes, Haj pilgrims from the State will begin their journey to Makkah and Madinah in Saudi Arabia.
 

Zaman, who is currently in charge of Haj affairs for five northeastern States, visited Dhubri and held a crucial meeting with members of the district Haj committee at the Dhubri Circuit House to review preparations and training arrangements for the pilgrims.
 

He said the committee has initiated ground-level assessments across several districts, from Sadiya, Tinsukia and other upper Assam areas to Dhubri, to understand local concerns and ensure smooth coordination. “After Ramadan, we will start structured training programmes. We will deploy 16 trainers along with Haj guides and Haj inspectors. Area-wise experts will also be involved to assist the pilgrims,” he said.
 

Zaman stressed the importance of sensitising pilgrims about international travel protocols and Saudi regulations. He said the committee has been actively creating awareness to ensure that pilgrims strictly follow rules and guidelines during their stay abroad. He added that various government departments are extending full cooperation, and student unions and youth organisations are also supporting the initiative.
 

He further informed that coordination teams are in place in cities such as Kolkata, Mumbai and Delhi. Pilgrims from Guwahati will first travel to Kolkata before proceeding further.
 

Highlighting new arrangements this year, Zaman said self-prepared meals will not be permitted at the Aziziya Building in Madinah. Although buffet facilities will be available, he noted that food habits differ among pilgrims from Assam and other regions such as Bengaluru. Therefore, the committee has proposed a zone-wise table arrangement to avoid inconvenience.
 

He also mentioned discussions regarding the distribution of tracking watches to help pilgrims monitor their location and movement. “Once all discussions are completed, we hope for a smooth and organised Haj process,” he said, adding that he would next visit Gauripur to assess grassroots issues.
 

During his visit, Zaman also urged the Assam Government to address the concerns of indigenous Goria-Moria-Deshi communities and called for the early formation of a Deshi Development Council to resolve their long-pending issues.