Mumbai: The selection process for Hajj assistants saw a major change this year with the introduction of an online Computer-Based Test (CBT), which was conducted yesterday. Candidates who passed the test will now proceed to the interview stage before the final selection. The Hajj Committee of India implemented stricter eligibility criteria, making it mandatory for Hajj assistants to be graduates and government employees, including those from autonomous bodies, to ensure greater accountability.
This year, the ratio of Hajj assistants to pilgrims was reduced from 1:300 to 1:150, with officials claiming this would improve guidance and support for pilgrims. However, the real impact of this decision will only be clear after the Hajj pilgrimage. The move comes in response to past complaints about some Hajj assistants neglecting their responsibilities, prioritizing personal worship over assisting pilgrims, and lacking proper training.
From Maharashtra, 300 candidates applied, including 240 government employees. Nationally, over 800 Hajj assistants will be selected to serve India’s Hajj quota of 122,518 pilgrims. The test, which assessed knowledge of Hajj, Umrah, and pilgrim assistance, took place between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM at designated centers. In Maharashtra, due to logistical constraints in Mumbai, the exam was held at Deogiri College, Aurangabad. Results are expected within a week to ten days.
