Prime Minister launches the Next Phase of UDAN – Viksit UDAN

📌 Summary:

• PM Narendra Modi launched the next phase of UDAN — 'Viksit UDAN' — and inaugurated the New Terminal Building at Jodhpur Airport (built by Airports Authority of India at ₹480 crore)
• Modified UDAN Scheme approved by Union Cabinet on 25 March 2026 with an outlay of ~₹29,000 crore over the next 10 years to advance Viksit Bharat 2047
• Components: development of 100 aerodromes from existing unserved airstrips (₹12,159 crore); Operations & Maintenance support for regional airports (₹2,577 crore); 200 modern helipads (₹3,661 crore); Viability Gap Funding of ₹10,043 crore to sustain regional airline operations
• Promotes induction of indigenous aircraft and helicopters (HAL Dhruv, Dornier) in underserved and remote regions — Atmanirbhar Bharat push in aviation
• Since its October 2016 launch, UDAN has operationalised 669 routes and connected 95 airports/heliports/water aerodromes, benefitting over 1.66 crore passengers
• Jodhpur New Terminal: 23,342 sq m, 20 lakh passengers/year capacity, 6 aerobridges, 1,500 peak-hour passengers, targeting 5-Star GRIHA green rating

🎯 UPSC Relevance: GS3 — civil aviation infrastructure and regional connectivity as a driver of inclusive growth, tourism and employment; GS2 — implementation of government schemes (UDAN/RCS).

📝 Prelims Facts:

• UDAN = Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik, launched October 2016, Ministry of Civil Aviation
• Modified UDAN Scheme: ₹29,000 crore outlay over 10 years, approved by Cabinet on 25 March 2026
• Achievements so far: 669 routes, 95 airports/heliports/water aerodromes, 1.66+ crore passengers
• Indigenous platforms promoted: HAL Dhruv, Dornier

🔑 Key Term: Viability Gap Funding (VGF) — financial support provided by the government to make economically justified but commercially unviable projects (such as regional air routes) financially feasible.