What is UDAN Scheme? PM Modi launches next phase in Jodhpur

What is the UDAN scheme?

Launched in October 2016, the UDAN scheme has significantly transformed regional air connectivity by operationalising 669 routes and linking 95 airports, heliports, and water aerodromes, benefiting over 1.66 crore passengers.

Building on this progress, the Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister, approved the Modified UDAN Scheme on 25 March 2026 with an outlay of approximately ₹29,000 crore over the next ten years. The initiative aims to accelerate aviation-led development and advance the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

The Modified UDAN Scheme focuses on expanding regional aviation infrastructure through the development of 100 aerodromes from existing unserved airstrips, with an investment of ₹12,159 crore. It also allocates ₹2,577 crore for operations and maintenance support for regional airports, ₹3,661 crore for the development of 200 modern helipads, and ₹10,043 crore for continued viability gap funding to sustain regional airline operations.

Further strengthening the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, the scheme promotes the induction of indigenous aircraft and helicopters, including HAL Dhruv and Dornier platforms, for operations in underserved and remote regions.

Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, speaking on the occasion, said the launch of the Modified UDAN Scheme marks the beginning of a new chapter in India’s aviation journey under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“Since 2016, UDAN has transformed the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Hawai Chappal se Hawai Jahaz’ into a national movement by making air travel affordable, accessible, and aspirational for every Indian,” he said.

He added that UDAN is not merely a connectivity scheme but a reflection of India’s aspirations, empowering farmers, students, entrepreneurs, artisans, and businesses with new opportunities for growth.

“From Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities to the remotest regions, aviation has become a powerful engine of economic development, tourism, employment, and social inclusion. As we move towards Viksit Bharat 2047, the next phase of UDAN will further strengthen last-mile connectivity and ensure that the vision of ‘Sabki Udaan, Sabka Vikas’ becomes a reality across every corner of the country,” he said.

On the same occasion, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the New Terminal Building at Jodhpur Airport, developed by the Airports Authority of India at a cost of ₹480 crore.

The new terminal is expected to significantly enhance connectivity for Jodhpur—Rajasthan’s “Blue City” and gateway to the Thar Desert—while supporting the region’s growing tourism, trade, and economic potential.

Spread over 23,342 square metres, the terminal is designed to handle 1,500 passengers during peak hours and 20 lakh passengers annually. It includes 20 check-in counters, advanced security screening systems, modern baggage handling facilities, and six aerobridges to ensure a seamless passenger experience.

The newly developed apron can accommodate 11 A-321 aircraft and one ATR-72 aircraft, while the city-side infrastructure provides parking for around 320 cars.