Next Phase of UDAN Takes Off with MoUs Signed with 21 States/UTs
The next phase of UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) has officially taken off, with Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu launching the Challenge Mode for Aerodrome Development and signing 21 MoUs with States and Union Territories.
Key Announcements
- 21 MoUs signed between the Ministry of Civil Aviation, States/UTs, and Airports Authority of India (AAI).
- Challenge Mode Portal launched: States/UTs can now nominate airstrips and helipads for development under UDAN.
- Scheme Document released for the next round of UDAN route bidding, ensuring transparency and competitive airline participation.
Impact of UDAN So Far
- 687 routes operationalized.
- 95 aerodromes developed.
- 3.66 lakh flights carried 1.71 crore passengers.
- Aviation jobs grew from 3 million (2014) to 7.7 million today, with potential to reach 25 million by 2040.
- Airports like Tezu (Arunachal Pradesh) and Purnea (Bihar) have transformed regional connectivity.
Focus of Modified UDAN
1. Affordability for passengers.
2. Sustainability of operations.
3. Transparent Challenge Mode for projects.
4. Promotion of indigenous manufacturing, aligned with the ambition of Made in India civil aircraft.
Future Goals
- 120 new destinations planned.
- Targeting 4 crore additional passengers over the next decade.
- Strengthening Centre–State partnerships to expand aviation infrastructure and regional prosperity.
This marks a significant step in making air travel more accessible, affordable, and widespread, while also positioning India’s aviation sector for long-term growth and innovation.
