Modified UDAN Scheme Expands Regional Air Connectivity

The Union Cabinet approved the Modified UDAN scheme for a ten-year period from FY 2026-27 to FY 2035-36 with a total outlay of Rs. 28,840 crore. The scheme continues the UDAN, or Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik, framework for regional air connectivity in India.

Scheme Outlay and Duration

The Modified UDAN scheme has budgetary support from the Government of India. The scheme period covers ten financial years, and the total financial allocation is Rs. 28,840 crore.

Airstrip and Airport Development

The scheme targets the development of 100 existing airstrips into UDAN airports. The planned investment for this component is over Rs. 12,000 crore. An additional Rs. 2,500 crore has been earmarked for operations and maintenance support for regional airports during their initial years of operation.

Helipads, VGF and Aircraft Support

The modified scheme proposes 200 modern helipads for remote and difficult terrain. This component carries an investment of Rs. 3,661 crore over eight years. Viability Gap Funding support of more than Rs. 10,000 crore will continue for airlines. The subsidy window under the scheme extends from three years to five years. The initiative includes indigenous aircraft and helicopters such as HAL Dhruv and Dornier platforms. These platforms are linked with the Atmanirbhar Bharat framework for domestic capability in aviation.

Important Facts for Exams

• UDAN stands for Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik.
• UDAN is a regional connectivity scheme under India’s civil aviation sector.
• Viability Gap Funding is a financial support mechanism used for commercially unviable projects.
• HAL Dhruv is an Indian multi-role helicopter, and Dornier aircraft are used in short-haul operations.

Jodhpur Airport Terminal

A new terminal building at Jodhpur Airport was inaugurated with a project cost of Rs. 480 crore. The terminal has a handling capacity of up to 20 lakh passengers annually.