PM launches the next Phase of UDAN with INR 29,000 cr outlay
Representative Image
Notably, the New Terminal Building, developed at INR 480 cr, was also inaugurated at Jodhpur Airport by the PM.
To boost India’s civil aviation sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the next phase of UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) and inaugurated the New Terminal Building (NTB) at Jodhpur Airport. The modified UDAN Scheme was approved on March 25, 2026, with an outlay of approximately INR 29,000 crore over the next ten years to accelerate aviation-led development and advance the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The Modified UDAN Scheme focuses on expanding regional aviation infrastructure through the development of 100 aerodromes from existing unserved airstrips with an investment of INR 12,159 crore. It also provides INR 2,577 crore towards Operations and Maintenance support for regional airports, development of 200 modern helipads with an investment of INR 3,661 crore, and continued Viability Gap Funding of INR 10,043 crore to sustain regional airline operations. Further strengthening the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, the scheme promotes the induction of indigenous aircraft and helicopters, including HAL Dhruv and Dornier platforms, for operations in underserved and remote regions.
Launched in October 2016, the UDAN Scheme has operationalised 669 routes and connected 95 airports, heliports and water aerodromes, benefitting over 1.66 crore passengers.
Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu, Union Minister of Civil Aviation, said, “UDAN is not merely a connectivity scheme—it is a celebration of India's aspirations, empowering farmers, students, entrepreneurs, artisans and businesses with new opportunities for growth. From Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities to the remotest regions, aviation has become a powerful engine of economic development, tourism, employment and social inclusion. As we move towards Viksit Bharat 2047, the next phase of UDAN will further strengthen last-mile connectivity and ensure that the vision of 'Sabki Udaan, Sabka Vikas' becomes a reality across every corner of the country.”
On this occasion, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the New Terminal Building at Jodhpur Airport, a significant infrastructure development by the Airports Authority of India at a cost of INR 480 crore. The new terminal aims to strengthen connectivity for Jodhpur, while supporting the region’s growing tourism, trade and economic potential.
Spread across 23,342 square metres, the terminal is designed to handle 1,500 passengers during peak hours and 20 lakh passengers annually. It features 20 check-in counters, advanced security screening systems, modern baggage handling facilities and six aerobridges, ensuring a seamless passenger experience. The newly developed apron can accommodate 11 A-321 aircraft and one ATR-72 aircraft, while the city-side infrastructure provides parking for approximately 320 cars.
Murlidhar Mohol, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation
Murlidhar Mohol, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation remarked, “The terminal beautifully showcases the rich cultural heritage of Marwar and will offer visitors a memorable first glimpse of Rajasthan's heritage. Also, the landmark extension of UDAN for another decade by the PM also took place from Jodhpur. The Modified UDAN scheme will further democratise aviation in the country by integrating every region into India’s growth story.”
