UDAN Scheme: Under the UDAN scheme, six districts in Chhattisgarh will be linked via air connectivity. To facilitate this, airstrips will be constructed in cities such as Raigarh, Jashpur, Korba (BALCO), Dalli-Rajhara, Bastar, and Rajnandgaon. Existing airstrips (runways)—originally built during the British era—will be expanded and renovated. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has directed airport authorities across the country to identify potential locations.
Flight Operations to Boost Connectivity
The proposal will be finalized upon receipt of the relevant files. Once the blueprint is prepared and the budget and other resources are approved, the airports will become operational. Flight services will commence from these airports to enhance regional connectivity. Yogesh Nagaich, Director of Swami Vivekananda Airport, stated that the UDAN scheme proposes the development of 100 new airports and 200 modern helipads nationwide. Efforts are underway to make air travel more accessible, affordable, and inclusive for citizens.
Budget of ₹28,840 Crore
A sum of ₹28,840 crore will be spent on the development and construction of new airports, modern helipads, and 120 new destinations across the country. Chhattisgarh is also included in this scheme. Once launched, it will benefit over 4 crore passengers from smaller towns. Improving connectivity for citizens in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities will provide affordable airfares and increased seat availability on larger aircraft. The aim is to link remote areas directly via air connectivity, thereby fostering local economic growth and creating new opportunities. Notably, the scheme covers not only plain regions but also hilly states, Union Territories (including island territories), the North-Eastern region, and ‘aspirational districts’.
What is the UDAN Scheme?
The UDAN scheme was launched in 2016 with the objective of enhancing regional air connectivity. Its objective is to connect small towns and remote areas with affordable air services. Under this scheme, the Central Government provides incentives to airlines so that regular flights can be operated even on routes with low passenger volume.
