New Delhi [India], April 26: The aviation sector of India has experienced a significant transformation, propelled by the UDAN scheme—Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik. Launched in 2016, this initiative was designed to democratise aviation, thereby making air travel accessible to the general populace, which was previously considered a luxury.
As the UDAN Scheme commemorates eight groundbreaking years, it stands as a testament to inclusive growth, linking tier-2 and tier-3 towns through affordable air travel.
With 625 routes in service and 90 airports, including heliports and water aerodromes, UDAN has carried over 1.49 crore passengers, making travel more accessible than ever for our citizens! This initiative has truly kickstarted development in areas that were previously unconnected. At the heart of this remarkable scheme is its Viability Gap Funding model, supported by a wonderful teamwork among the central government, state governments, and airport operators.
“Aviation was once considered the domain of a select few, but that has changed now with the advent of UDAN. My dream is to see a person who wears a ‘hawai chappal’ to fly on the ‘hawai jahaz’.”
– Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi
Projects such as UDAN Yatri Cafes, seaplane operations, and the Krishi UDAN scheme for farmers exemplify the dynamic and citizen-centric nature of the initiative. The revamped UDAN program is, however, poised to introduce 120 new destinations with a target of 40 million new passengers, emphasising a particular focus on aspirational districts as well as the North-East region of India.
UDAN isn’t just about aviation—it’s really about our trust in the government, a clear vision for the future, and aligning with what citizens hope for. It emphasises discipline, focus, and a commitment to continuity, ensuring that every single Indian is taken care of, even when soaring at 30,000 feet!
As India rises, so do its people—one flight at a time.
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