PM Launches Modified UDAN Scheme with Rs 28,840 Cr Outlay, Inaugurates Rs 480 Cr Jodhpur Airport Terminal
Approved by the Union Cabinet on March 25, 2026, the Modified UDAN Scheme has an outlay of approximately Rs 29,000 crore over the next 10 years. The scheme aims to expand regional aviation infrastructure, improve last-mile connectivity and support the government's vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Under the scheme, 100 aerodromes will be developed from existing unserved airstrips with an investment of Rs 12,159 crore. It also provides Rs 2,577 crore for operations and maintenance support to regional airports, Rs 3,661 crore for the development of 200 modern helipads, and Rs 10,043 crore as viability gap funding to sustain regional airline operations.
The modified scheme also promotes the deployment of indigenous aircraft and helicopters, including HAL Dhruv and Dornier platforms, to improve connectivity in underserved and remote regions.
Launched in October 2016, the UDAN scheme has so far operationalised 669 routes and connected 95 airports, heliports and water aerodromes, benefiting more than 1.66 crore passengers.
The Prime Minister also inaugurated the new terminal building at Jodhpur Airport, developed by the Airports Authority of India at a cost of Rs 480 crore.
Spread across 23,342 sq m, the terminal has been designed to handle 1,500 passengers during peak hours and an annual passenger capacity of 20 lakh. The facility includes 20 check-in counters, six aerobridges, advanced baggage handling systems and modern security screening infrastructure to enhance passenger convenience.
The expanded apron can accommodate 11 Airbus A321 aircraft and one ATR-72 aircraft, while the city-side infrastructure includes parking space for around 320 cars.
The new terminal replaces the existing facility, which had an annual handling capacity of around four lakh passengers and had reached saturation due to increasing air traffic.
Designed with sustainable features such as energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures and green building practices, the terminal is targeted to achieve a 5-Star GRIHA rating. Its architecture incorporates traditional Rajasthani design elements, including arches and jharokhas, reflecting the cultural heritage of the Marwar region.
The government said the launch of the Modified UDAN Scheme and the commissioning of the new Jodhpur Airport terminal will strengthen regional connectivity, improve airport infrastructure, promote tourism and trade, and support inclusive economic development across the country.
Published on:
06 July 2026
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