"It is for the first time that Haj application process is going to be digital," Naqvi said during the launch of the event at Haj House in south Mumbai.
"This is a major initiative in the government's 'Digital India' programme," he said.
"The Ministry of Minority Affairs has joined Digital India campaign in a big way. We have made several processes regarding Haj digital/online. The Central government has been encouraging online applications for next Haj so that people can get an opportunity for the pilgrimage with complete transparency and comfort," Naqvi said.
Applying for Haj, enquiry and information, news and updates and e-payment are the main features of the app. The application can be made directly on the app. Five adults and two infants can apply as a group.
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A PDF copy of the form will go to applicant's email. After affixing the photo, the printout with documents is to be sent to the state Haj committees. Registration fees can also be paid through this app.
Last year, about 45,843 people had applied for Haj
online, which was about 11 per cent of total applications received from across the nation for the pilgrimage.
"We have been making efforts to make the process of online application simple and easy so that more and more people can apply online for next Haj pilgrimage," Naqvi said.
Maharashtra was at the top place regarding online applications for Haj 2016, with a total of 10,960 people having applied online.
About 99,903 people went to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for Haj from 21 embarkation points across India through Haj Committee of India during Haj 2016. Besides, about 36,000 pilgrims had proceeded for Haj through private tour operators.
The Central government and Haj Committee of India have already started preparations to ensure that the next Haj is completely smooth and convenient for the pilgrims, the minister said.
"We have received several important suggestions on Haj pilgrimage and we are moving forward keeping in mind these suggestions," Naqvi said.