Regional Connectivity Scheme – Modified UDAN
Key Points
The Union Cabinet has approved the Regional Connectivity Scheme – Modified UDAN with a budget of Rs 28,840 crore for 2026–2036. This initiative is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it impacts GS Paper 3 by addressing regional aviation issues. Last Updated: 27-03-2026
Key Facts About Regional Connectivity Scheme – Modified UDAN
- Definition: A revamped version of the UDAN scheme, introduced in the Union Budget for 2025–26.
- Objective: Ensure affordable air travel and enhance connectivity to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
- Key Provisions: Extended subsidies, direct government funding, and O&M support.
- Numbers/Targets: Rs 28,840 crore budget for 2026–2036, development of 100 airports and 200 helipads.
- Outcomes: Address viability issues and promote indigenous aviation.
India's Regional Aviation Growth
The Regional Connectivity Scheme – Modified UDAN plays a significant role in India's strategic goals by enhancing regional connectivity and supporting economic growth. It aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, promoting indigenous manufacturing and infrastructure development, which are crucial for India's global competitiveness.
UPSC Relevance
The scheme is relevant for GS Paper 3 under the topic of infrastructure development and economic growth. In the prelims, questions may focus on the scheme's objectives and provisions. For mains, it connects to themes of regional development and sustainable infrastructure.
FAQ Section
- What is the objective of the UDAN scheme? It aims to make air travel affordable and enhance regional connectivity, particularly in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
- What is the key change in the Modified UDAN scheme? The subsidy duration is extended from 3 to 5 years, and funding now comes from the government exchequer.
- What is Viability Gap Funding (VGF) in UDAN? It is a government subsidy provided to airlines to maintain affordable airfares and support unviable routes.
- Which policy launched the UDAN scheme? It was launched under the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP), 2016.
Detailed Coverage
- Modified UDAN is a revamped version of the original UDAN initiative.
- It aims to ensure affordable air travel and enhance connectivity.
- Targets infrastructure development and operational sustainability.
- Original UDAN faced sustainability challenges.
- Only 7% to 10% of routes remained viable after subsidies.
- 327 routes launched since 2017 fell into disuse.
- Government extends subsidy window from 3 to 5 years.
- Financial support now comes directly from the government exchequer.
- Day-to-day costs of low-traffic aerodromes will be subsidized.
- Targets development of 100 airports from unserved airstrips.
- Focus on procuring locally manufactured aircraft.
- UDAN scheme aims to democratize aviation and enhance regional connectivity.
- It supports affordable air travel through airfare caps.
- India’s airport network has doubled from 74 to 159 airports.
- UDAN has evolved from 1.0 to 5.0, expanding its scope.
- Krishi UDAN integrates air logistics for agricultural produce.