UDAN Scheme (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik)

The Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) scheme, launched in 2016 by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, aims to make air travel affordable and enhance connectivity to remote and underserved regions of India. To commemorate the scheme's impact, 21st October is celebrated as UDAN Day, marking the release of the scheme's document.

• Develop regional aviation markets.
• Provide affordable and economically viable air travel to the common citizen, even in small towns.

1. Connectivity to Unserved and Underserved Airports:
   • Focus on reviving underutilized airstrips and airports across the country.
   • Unserved Airports: No existing air operations.
   • Underserved Airports: Operate with no more than one flight a day.
2. Operational Period:
   • The scheme is designed to function for 10 years.
3. Financial Incentives:
   • Support from the Central Government, State Governments, and airport operators to make operations viable.
   • These incentives keep airfares affordable while encouraging airlines to operate in remote areas.

• 387 Routes and 60 Airports: Operationalized under the scheme.
• North-East Region Focus:
  • 100 routes awarded exclusively for the region.
  • KRISHI UDAN Scheme: 16 airports identified to boost agricultural exports and cargo movement in the North-East.

• 128 flight routes awarded to 5 airlines, connecting 70 airports, including 36 newly operational airports.

• Focused on 73 underserved and unserved airports, including helipads.
• For the first time, helicopters connected remote regions.

• Tourism Routes introduced in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism.
• Seaplanes introduced for connecting water aerodromes.
• Increased focus on the North-East Region.

• 78 new routes approved to enhance regional connectivity further.
• Lakshadweep Islands: New routes connecting Kavaratti, Agatti, and Minicoy.

• Focus on smaller airports and special helicopter and seaplane routes.
• Proposed routes under Sagarmala Seaplane Services, an initiative of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.

• Facilitates the transport of agricultural products, improving farmers' access to markets and increasing value realization.

• Aims to connect smaller Indian cities directly to key foreign destinations in the region.

1. Sustainability:
   • Airlines should leverage strategic benefits from the scheme, such as slots at tier-1 airports and reduced operational costs, to make it self-sufficient.
2. Marketing Initiatives:
   • Greater promotion is required to increase awareness among potential passengers about affordable regional travel options.
3. Infrastructure Development:
   • Investment in airport infrastructure and logistical networks is critical for the scheme's nationwide success.
4. Collaboration:
   • Coordination among airlines, state governments, and private operators is essential for seamless operations.
5. Monitoring and Improvement:
   • Regular evaluation of routes and services to ensure efficiency and maximize the scheme's impact.