Union Cabinet approved the Modified UDAN
Scheme for a 10-year period from FY 2026–27 to FY 2035–36
¨
Union Cabinet approved
the Modified UDAN Scheme for a 10-year period from FY 2026–27 to FY 2035–36.
¨
The scheme has a total
financial outlay of ₹28,840 crore.
¨
It continues the UDAN
(Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) programme to strengthen regional air connectivity
across India.
¨
The scheme is supported
through budgetary funding by the Government of India.
¨
The Modified UDAN Scheme
aims to develop 100 existing airstrips into UDAN airports.
¨
More than ₹12,000 crore
has been allocated for the development of these airports.
¨
An additional ₹2,500
crore has been earmarked for operations and maintenance (O&M) support for
regional airports during their initial years of operation.
¨
The scheme proposes the
development of 200 modern helipads in remote and difficult terrains.
¨
An investment of ₹3,661
crore has been allocated for the helipad component over eight years.
¨
Viability Gap Funding
(VGF) support of more than ₹10,000 crore will continue for airlines operating
under the scheme.
¨
The VGF subsidy period
has been extended from 3 years to 5 years.
¨ The scheme promotes the use of indigenously developed aircraft and helicopters, including HAL Dhruv and Dornier platforms.
¨ It supports the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative by strengthening India's domestic aviation manufacturing and regional connectivity.
