The Indian government plans to expand the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme by adding 120 new locations over the next decade, aiming to connect 4 crore more people through affordable air travel, Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu informed the Rajya Sabha on Monday.
During the Question Hour, Naidu highlighted the success of the UDAN scheme, which has already benefited 1.5 crore people by improving air connectivity to underserved and unserved airports. “The thought process behind the scheme has been to connect all airports and address viability challenges faced by airlines in launching new routes. The viability gap funding under UDAN has played a crucial role in making air travel accessible,” he said.
UDAN Scheme Extended for Another 10 Years
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her recent budget speech, announced an extension of the UDAN scheme for another 10 years, recognizing its success in enhancing regional connectivity. “In the last 10 years, we have connected 1.5 crore people, and in the next decade, we aim to reach 4 crore more while adding 120 new destinations,” Naidu added.
Explaining the selection process for new UDAN routes, Naidu said, “We identify under-served and unserved airports with less than seven flights per week. The government then invites bids for these routes through a transparent process.”
Challenges and Solutions
Addressing concerns about UDAN routes being discontinued after some time, Naidu clarified that the viability gap funding for these routes lasts only for three years. “The goal is not to provide eternal subsidies but to help kickstart air connectivity in those regions. Once a route becomes viable, it continues without government support,” he said.
On the issue of congestion at major airports, Naidu noted that increasing connectivity to smaller airports would naturally ease congestion at metro hubs. “Congestion happens when air traffic is concentrated at a few major airports. By expanding connectivity to different airports, we aim to decongest these major hubs,” he explained.
Steps to Address High Airfares
Responding to concerns over high airfares, Naidu said that India follows international market-driven pricing principles but the government is taking steps to ensure reasonable pricing. “We are working to increase the number of aircraft and airlines in the country to promote healthy competition. Additionally, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has a tariff monitoring unit that reviews airfare trends and intervenes when necessary,” he said.
The minister also cited a recent intervention during the Maha Kumbh, where authorities held discussions with airlines to prevent exorbitant airfare hikes.
The UDAN scheme, launched in 2017, aims to make air travel affordable for the common man while promoting regional connectivity by providing financial support to airlines operating on regional routes. With the latest expansion plans, the government is set to further strengthen India’s aviation sector and make air travel accessible to millions more.
Sources By Agencies