Rudrapur, April 14 -- A total of 1,369 pilgrims from Uttarakhand will undertake the annual Hajj pilgrimage this year, with the journey scheduled to begin from April 18, officials associated with the Uttarakhand State Haj Committee said on Monday. According to committee officials, the pilgrimage will commence 12 days earlier than last year. "Efforts are being made to ensure that the Haj journey remains comfortable for the pilgrims. The Haj committee is in constant contact with every pilgrim and flight confirmations will be sent to their mobile phones," said Haji Khatib Ahmed, chairman of the Uttarakhand State Haj Committee. He said the number of pilgrims travelling this year is significantly higher compared to last year. In 2025, a total of 915 pilgrims from the state undertook the pilgrimage, while this year the number has increased by 454 to reach 1,369. The pilgrims from Uttarakhand will travel through a total of 46 flights. Travel documents, including tickets, smart watches and other necessary materials, will be issued to pilgrims only after verification of their passports....