To enhance regional connectivity, the government on Saturday (February 1) unveiled a modified UDAN scheme aimed at connecting 120 new destinations, which will help carry 4 crore passengers over the next decade.
In her Union Budget 2025-26 speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman also announced plans to develop greenfield airports in Bihar.
The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, which focuses on regional air connectivity, has already connected 88 airports and operationalized 619 routes. Sitharaman stated that UDAN has helped 1.5 crore middle-class citizens fulfill their desire for faster travel.
120 additional destination announced under UDAN
Building on its success, the modified UDAN scheme will target 120 new destinations, with the goal of carrying 4 crore more passengers in the next 10 years. The scheme will also support helipads and smaller airports in remote, hilly, and aspirational areas, particularly in the North East.
“Inspired by that success, a modified UDAN scheme will be launched to enhance regional connectivity to 120 new destinations and carry 4 crore passengers in the next 10 years. The scheme will also support helipads and smaller airports in hilly, aspirational, and North East region districts,” the minister said.
India’s rapidly growing civil aviation market and increasing air traffic demand were key factors behind this expansion.
Greenfield airports in Bihar announced
Sitharaman also mentioned that Bihar will see the development of greenfield airports to meet its future needs, alongside the expansion of Patna Airport and the construction of a brownfield airport at Bihta. Bihar is set to hold elections later this year.