SynopsisPrime Minister Narendra Modi has launched the revamped UDAN scheme with a Rs 28,840 crore investment over a decade. This initiative aims to boost regional air connectivity by developing 100 aerodromes, supporting airport operations, and providing viability gap funding. The plan also includes building 200 helipads and procuring indigenous aircraft, alongside the inauguration of a new terminal at Jodhpur Airport.Listen to this article in summarized formatANIGovt launches UDAN 2.0 scheme Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Modified UDAN Scheme on Saturday with an allocation of Rs 28,840 crore over the next 10 years to advance the vision of "Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik".The scheme, as government said, is aimed at accelerating the next phase of aviation-led development as it focuses on multiple strategic components designed to ensure comprehensive and sustainable connectivity.Under the scheme, Rs 12,000 crore is allocated for the development of 100 aerodromes from existing unserved airstrips, Rs 2,500 earmarked for Operations and Maintenance (O&M) support and Rs 10,000 crore allocated for Viability Gap Funding (VGF) support.Also read: UDAN flights discontinued on 50% of routes launched so farAs the modified UDAN scheme aims to expand aviation infrastructure across the country, O&M support would ensure the viability of regional airports during their initial years of operation. The government has also proposed development of 200 modern helipads to address accessibility challenges in remote and difficult terrains.The scheme also includes the procurement of indigenous aircraft and helicopters, such as HAL Dhruv and Dornier platforms, to enhance connectivity and operations in underserved regions.Key components of UDAN 2.0:(a) Development of Aerodromes (CAPEX): Government will develop 100 airports from existing unserved airstrips to enhance regional connectivity, with a total outlay of Rs. 12,159 crore over the next eight years.(b) Operation & Maintenance (O&M) of Aerodromes: The Scheme proposes to provide O&M support for three years capped at Rs. 3.06 crore per annum per airport and Rs. 0.90 crore per annum per heliport/water aerodrome, estimated at Rs. 2,577 crore for around 441 aerodromes.(c) Development of Modern Helipads: The Scheme proposes developing 200 modern helipads at Rs. 15 crore each, amounting to a total requirement of Rs. 3,661 crore over the next eight years (inflation-adjusted).(d) Viability Gap Funding (VGF): VGF support to airline operators is proposed amounting to Rs. 10,043 crore over 10 years.(e) Atmanirbhar Bharat Aircraft Acquisition: The scheme also proposes to procure two HAL Dhruv helicopters for Pawan Hans and two HAL Dornier aircraft for Alliance Air.The Centre approved launch and implementation of the Regional Connectivity Scheme – Modified UDAN for a period of ten years from FY 2026-27 to FY 2035-36 on March 25.The original UDAN Scheme was launched in October 2016 with the objective of making air travel affordable and strengthening connectivity to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.PM Modi also inaugurated the new terminal building at Jodhpur Airport developed at a total cost of Rs 480 crore. The project, spread over an area of more than 23,000 sqm. , is designed to handle up to 20 lakh passengers annually. It is equipped with modern passenger amenities to ensure a seamless and comfortable travel experience.Read More News on...moreless