The Union Cabinet has approved a revamped version of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme with a total outlay of ₹28,840 crore, aimed at strengthening regional air connectivity over the next 10 years.
Under the modified scheme, the government plans to develop around 100 airports by upgrading existing unserved and underserved airstrips, significantly expanding India’s aviation network.
The initiative also includes the development of 200 helipads and enhanced financial support for airline operators through viability gap funding, ensuring better connectivity in remote, hilly, and island regions.
The scheme is expected to boost economic growth, tourism, and trade in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, while also improving emergency services and healthcare access in remote areas.
Originally launched in 2016, UDAN has already operationalised hundreds of routes across India, and the new phase aims to further scale up affordable air travel and strengthen the country’s aviation infrastructure.
