Jodhpur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched the next phase of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, now branded as Viksit UDAN, and inaugurated the new terminal building at Jodhpur Airport, marking a fresh push to expand regional air connectivity and aviation infrastructure across the country.
The launch comes after the Union Cabinet approved the Modified UDAN Scheme on March 25, 2026, with an outlay of nearly ₹29,000 crore over the next ten years. The programme aims to improve regional connectivity, develop new aviation infrastructure and support the government's vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Since its launch in 2016, the UDAN scheme has operationalised 669 routes, connecting 95 airports, heliports and water aerodromes, and has benefited more than 1.66 crore passengers.
Under the modified scheme, the government plans to develop 100 aerodromes from existing unserved airstrips with an investment of ₹12,159 crore. It has also allocated ₹2,577 crore for operations and maintenance support for regional airports, ₹3,661 crore for developing 200 modern helipads, and ₹10,043 crore for Viability Gap Funding to support regional airline operations. The scheme also encourages the use of indigenous aircraft and helicopters, including HAL Dhruv and Dornier platforms, for services in remote and underserved areas.
Speaking at the event, Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu said, "The launch of the Modified UDAN Scheme with a historic outlay of nearly ₹29,000 crore under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji marks the beginning of a new chapter in India's aviation journey. Since 2016, UDAN has transformed the Prime Minister's vision of 'Hawai Chappal se Hawai Jahaz' into a national movement by making air travel affordable, accessible and aspirational for every Indian. Today, 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."
Alongside the launch of the modified scheme, the Prime Minister inaugurated the new terminal building at Jodhpur Airport, developed by the Airports Authority of India at a cost of ₹480 crore.
Built over 23,342 square metres, the terminal has the capacity to handle 1,500 passengers during peak hours and up to 20 lakh passengers annually. It includes 20 check-in counters, six aerobridges, advanced baggage handling and security systems, and an expanded apron capable of accommodating 11 A-321 aircraft and one ATR-72 aircraft. The airport also has parking space for around 320 cars.
Highlighting the significance of the new terminal, Kinjarapu said, "I congratulate the people of Jodhpur and the entire western Rajasthan region on this magnificent new terminal, which beautifully reflects the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Marwar. From its royal Rajasthani facade to interiors inspired by the region's vibrant traditions, the terminal will offer every passenger, especially visitors from across the world, their very first experience of Rajasthan's warmth and the spirit of 'Padharo Mhare Desh.' Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, we are building airports that seamlessly combine world-class infrastructure with India's cultural identity. Every such new terminal, every new route brings us one step closer to the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047."
The new facility replaces the existing terminal, which had an annual handling capacity of around four lakh passengers and had reached saturation because of rising passenger traffic. The terminal has been designed with energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures and other sustainable features aimed at securing a 5-Star GRIHA rating. Its architecture incorporates traditional Rajasthani elements such as arches and jharokhas alongside contemporary design.
Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol said, "I congratulate the people of Rajasthan on the inauguration of the magnificent new terminal at Jodhpur Airport. 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 democratize aviation in the country by integrating every region into India’s growth story."
The event was attended by Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and other senior dignitaries.
BI Bureau
