New Delhi । The  ‘Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik’ UDAN Scheme under Budget 2025, aims to improve regional air connectivity by upgrading infrastructure and adding new routes and operational airports. The central government plans to introduce 100 new RCS routes during the financial year 2025-26 and 12 new RCS airports will become operational, improving the overall air connectivity network. The Ministry of Civil Aviation will focus on upgrading infrastructure based on proposals from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and state governments, which includes the development of airports, helipads, and upgrading of water drones.

In line with this, Shri Tokhan Sahu, Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs said that the state of Chhattisgarh should submit a formal proposal to the central government to leverage the new budget allocations and ensure further development in the aviation sector in the state. “ The state government should submit a comprehensive proposal to the central government for accessing various schemes under the new budget,” said the Minister. “ The collaborative effort between the state and central governments will alleviate existing challenges and further enhance connectivity in the region, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Chhattisgarh and surrounding areas.” , he further added.

The Minister has long championed the expansion of the airports in Chhattisgarh. He previously advocated for the extension of Bilaspur Airport’s runway from its current 3C category to the 4C category, alongside the installation of night landing facilities. These proposed upgrades would significantly enhance regional air connectivity, supporting larger aircraft and increasing operational capacity for both passenger and cargo services.

Building on these efforts, the  Minister has now expressed strong support for the development of Raipur Airport into an international airport aiming to expand air operations, connecting Raipur to international destinations, further enhancing the region’s economic and tourism prospects. Commenting on the convenience of travel for travelers from the state and neighboring states, the Minister remarked, “The transformation of Raipur Airport into an international hub will provide a more accessible and efficient gateway that will benefit both individuals and the region as a whole. By offering direct flights to international destinations, this development will reduce the need for travelers from within the state and neighboring states to travel to major hubs like Mumbai and Delhi—already among the busiest airports in the country.”

In past years, under the UDAN Scheme, three airports in Chhattisgarh—Jagdalpur, Bilaspur, and Ambikapur—were identified for the development and operation of RCS flights. Since these airports became operational 16 RCS routes have been successfully operationalized in the State, benefiting more than 231,000 passengers and improving access to air travel for citizens of Chhattisgarh.

Despite the success of the UDAN scheme, several challenges remain. The Minister acknowledged the challenges and reassured that steps will be taken to address them, including the enhancement of airport infrastructure and the extension of airport runways to accommodate larger aircraft. The Minister is firm in his commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the aviation sector in Chhattisgarh.