Fewer haj application this year Updated: Updated: Rising cost of airfare and accommodation are factors Share Article Rising cost of airfare and accommodation are factors Lack of clarity about the haj season 2021, the COVID–19 pandemic, and the steady increase in airfare, and cost of accommodation has led to the a massive drop in applications from those in Telangana who wish to make the pilgrimage. According to sources in the Telangana State Haj Committee (TSHC), an agency of the Minorities Welfare Department, which oversees travel, accommodation and guides pilgrims on rituals connected to the pilgrimage, the approximate number of applications received thus far are approximately 3,900, a massive drop compared to the over 10,000 applications it received last year. The last date of submitting applications was January 10.