The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, initiated by the Government of India in 2016, represents a significant effort to enhance air connectivity, particularly in underserved and remote regions of the country. This regional connectivity scheme aims to make air travel more affordable and accessible for a larger segment of the Indian populace, who previously had limited or no access to aviation services.
Achievements:
Over the course of the UDAN scheme: Approximately 2.8 lakh flights have been conducted .43 crore passengers have benefited from the scheme. 86 airports have been connected, including 13 heliports and 2 water aerodromes. The Indian government continues to support the scheme with a projected intent to connect more than 100 underserved airports by 2024 and beyond, working towards a more inclusive aviation sector that can span across various demographics and regions8.
In summary, the UDAN initiative exemplifies a transformative leap towards making air travel more inclusive in India, reflecting a commitment to regional connectivity and economic growth while facing significant challenges that need to be addressed for sustainable future success. The scheme’s ongoing evolution and strategic support from the government and private sectors are essential for achieving these ambitious goals.