Jodhpur: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched the next phase of the UDAN regional connectivity scheme and inaugurated the New Terminal Building at Jodhpur Airport, marking a major expansion of India’s civil aviation infrastructure.
The event was attended by several prominent dignitaries, including Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Union Minister of Civil Aviation Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu, Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol.
The newly introduced Modified UDAN Scheme outlines a comprehensive financial framework to enhance regional air travel across the country. Under this phase, an investment of ₹12,159 crore will be directed toward developing 100 aerodromes from currently unserved airstrips, while an allocation of ₹2,577 crore is designated to provide operations and maintenance support for regional airports.
Additionally, an investment of ₹3,661 crore will fund the creation of 200 modern helipads, and a continued Viability Gap Funding of ₹10,043 crore will be provided to sustain regional airline operations.
In line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat self-reliance initiative, the updated scheme actively promotes the deployment of indigenous aircraft and helicopters, including HAL Dhruv and Dornier platforms, specifically for operations in remote and underserved regions.
Together, these infrastructure upgrades and the modified scheme aim to build a more integrated, accessible, and future-ready aviation ecosystem that is expected to strengthen regional connectivity, boost local tourism and trade, and drive inclusive socio-economic growth nationwide.