Haj pilgrims from India will now have to pay an additional ₹10,000 as 'differential airfare' due to rising costs of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The Haj Committee of India (HCI) announced this requirement in a recent circular, emphasizing that the increase is necessary to manage the soaring costs of air travel. Pilgrims can make the payment digitally through the Haj Suvidha App or at branches of State Bank of India and Union Bank of India. This decision has sparked controversy, with political figures like Asaduddin Owaisi expressing their objections. However, the Minority Affairs Ministry has defended the move, stating it is essential for maintaining the pilgrimage arrangements amidst fluctuating fuel prices.