In a significant push for regional development, Rajya Sabha member Kartikeya Sharma on Monday held a crucial meeting with Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu. The primary agenda was to expedite the long-awaited operationalisation of the Ambala Civil Enclave Airport and advocate for the expansion of aviation training infrastructure in Haryana.
The Long Wait for Ambala's Commercial Flights
During the discussions, Sharma highlighted a critical gap. Despite being one of the nation's oldest airfields, Ambala is still awaiting the launch of commercial flight services under the government's Regional Connectivity Scheme, popularly known as UDAN. He pointed out that the project, which received approval back in 2018, has already crossed several vital milestones. These include the transfer of defence land valued at a substantial Rs 133 crore and the laying of the foundation stone by the Haryana government in October 2023. The airport is also a cherished dream project of Ambala Cantonment MLA and Haryana Minister, Anil Vij.
Strategic and Economic Benefits for the Region
Emphasising the project's dual importance, Sharma outlined its strategic and economic potential. Once operational, the Ambala Civil Enclave Airport is poised to directly benefit residents of several key districts, including Ambala, Panchkula, Yamunanagar, Kurukshetra, and Karnal. Beyond local connectivity, the MP underscored its role as a vital alternate airport to Chandigarh during periods of adverse weather, thereby strengthening the overall air connectivity network in the region.
Creating a Skilled Workforce for Aviation
Moving beyond infrastructure, Kartikeya Sharma stressed the urgent need to create skill development and employment opportunities for Haryana's youth in the aviation sector. To address the rapidly growing national demand for trained professionals, he put forward concrete proposals. These included developing a dedicated pilot training and flying school hub in the Kalka-Pinjore region and expanding the existing Haryana Institute of Civil Aviation.
The Union Civil Aviation Minister responded positively to the representations. He shared an update on the current status and future roadmap for the Ambala airport project. Acknowledging the importance of regional airports for balanced growth, Minister Naidu assured Sharma that the proposals concerning pilot training and flying schools in the Pinjore region would be examined with serious intent.
Welcoming the minister's receptive response, Kartikeya Sharma expressed confidence that such focused and constructive dialogues are essential to turning long-pending projects into tangible realities for the people. The meeting marks a renewed push to unlock the economic and logistical potential of northern Haryana through enhanced air connectivity and skill development.
