NEW DELHI. The Union Cabinet has approved the revamped UDAN 2.0 scheme with a budget of Rs 28,840 crore to expand regional air connectivity over the next decade. The plan includes developing 100 airports by upgrading existing unserved airstrips and building 200 helipads, especially in remote, hilly, and island regions, to improve emergency and healthcare access. It also supports procurement of indigenous aircraft, such as HAL helicopters and planes, and provides financial aid to airlines for operating in less-connected areas. The scheme aims to make air travel affordable, boost connectivity to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, and promote “Make in India,” building on the success of the original UDAN launched in 2016.
Centre Approves UDAN Scheme 2.0 to Develop 100 Airports and 200 Helipads for Better Regional Connectivity
