UDAN 2.0 Takes Off: Centre Joins Hands With 22 States for Regional Connectivity Push
What Happened
The Ministry of Civil Aviation is set to sign MoUs with 22 states for the next phase of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme. The move will kick off a new Challenge Mode and Routes Bidding Round aimed at expanding regional air connectivity, especially in underserved areas. The participating states include Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, West Bengal and others.
Key Takeaways
The next phase of UDAN is designed to deepen regional aviation access under the modified scheme approved by the Union Cabinet. The programme has a ₹28,840 crore outlay for 2026-27 to 2035-36 and aims to develop 100 airports and 200 modern helipads in remote, hilly and underserved regions, improving last-mile connectivity and boosting economic development.