In a significant move to boost regional connectivity and make air travel more affordable, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced on Saturday that the government will modify the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme to cover 120 new airports over the next 10 years. The expansion aims to cater to an additional 4 crore passengers, making air travel more accessible and affordable for millions of Indians.
The UDAN scheme, initially launched in 2016, has already played a crucial role in increasing air connectivity to remote and underserved regions. With this new modification, the government is focusing on expanding connectivity even further, ensuring that smaller cities and towns are better linked to major hubs across the country.
As part of this expansion, Bihar is set to benefit significantly, with new greenfield airports planned to be developed in key locations, including Rajgir. This will not only enhance connectivity for both passengers and businesses but will also stimulate local economies, creating new employment opportunities and promoting tourism in the region. The development of greenfield airports in Bihar is expected to attract more investment and boost the state’s infrastructure.
The initiative is expected to have far-reaching benefits, particularly in regions that have traditionally been underserved by air travel. By improving connectivity, the government aims to boost economic growth, reduce travel time, and provide greater mobility for both passengers and goods. This enhanced air network will be crucial in meeting the growing demand for affordable air travel, ensuring that even the most distant parts of the country are integrated into the broader national and international aviation network.
Sitharaman’s announcement underlines the government’s commitment to enhancing the accessibility of air travel and its focus on fostering inclusive economic growth. With the modification of the UDAN scheme, India is set to witness a transformative shift in its aviation landscape, with an emphasis on regional connectivity and equitable access to air travel.
