Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday launched the modified UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme and inaugurated the new terminal building at Jodhpur airport, marking a significant step in expanding India's regional air connectivity and aviation infrastructure.
Modified UDAN scheme gets Rs 29,000 crore boost
The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister, approved the Modified UDAN Scheme on 25 March 2026 with an outlay of approximately Rs 29,000 crore over the next ten years. The scheme aims to accelerate aviation-led development and advance the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Since its launch in October 2016, the original UDAN scheme has operationalised 669 routes and connected 95 airports, heliports and water aerodromes, benefiting over 1.66 crore passengers. The modified scheme builds on this success with a focus on expanding regional aviation infrastructure.
Key components of the modified scheme
The modified UDAN scheme includes the development of 100 aerodromes from existing unserved airstrips with an investment of Rs 12,159 crore. It also provides Rs 2,577 crore for operations and maintenance support for regional airports, development of 200 modern helipads with an investment of Rs 3,661 crore, and continued viability gap funding of Rs 10,043 crore to sustain regional airline operations.
According to the government, the scheme promotes the induction of indigenous aircraft and helicopters, including HAL Dhruv and Dornier platforms, for operations in underserved and remote regions.
New terminal at Jodhpur airport inaugurated
PM Modi also inaugurated the new terminal building at Jodhpur airport, developed by the Airports Authority of India at a cost of Rs 480 crore. The terminal is spread across 23,342 square metres and is designed to handle 1,500 passengers during peak hours and 20 lakh passengers annually.
The new terminal features 20 check-in counters, advanced security screening systems, modern baggage handling facilities and six aerobridges, ensuring a seamless passenger experience. The newly developed apron can accommodate 11 A-321 aircraft and one ATR-72 aircraft, while the city-side infrastructure provides parking for approximately 320 cars.
Boosting tourism and economic potential
The new terminal will strengthen connectivity for Jodhpur, Rajasthan's renowned “Blue City” and gateway to the Thar Desert, while supporting the region's growing tourism, trade and economic potential. The event was attended by Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde, Union Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu, Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma.
