Government Schemes📖 3 min read

PM Modi Launches UDAN 5.0 Scheme, Inaugurates Jodhpur Terminal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the updated UDAN 5.0 scheme and inaugurated a new terminal building at Jodhpur Airport, boosting regional air connectivity.

Source: GNews PM Scheme
Summary of News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently launched the fifth phase of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, known as UDAN 5.0, with an outlay of Rs 28,840 crore. This modified scheme aims to further enhance regional air connectivity across India, making air travel more accessible and affordable for common citizens. During the event, PM Modi also inaugurated a new state-of-the-art terminal building at Jodhpur Airport in Rajasthan. This new terminal, constructed at a cost of Rs 480 crore, is designed to significantly increase the airport's passenger handling capacity and improve overall infrastructure. The UDAN scheme, a flagship initiative of the Government of India, has been instrumental in connecting smaller cities and towns to the national aviation network, fostering economic growth and tourism in these regions. The launch of UDAN 5.0 and the new Jodhpur terminal underscore the government's commitment to developing aviation infrastructure.

Why It Matters

This news is important for competitive exams, especially for topics related to Government Schemes (UPSC GS Paper II, SSC General Awareness) and Infrastructure Development. Aspirants should understand the objectives and impact of the UDAN scheme, its various phases, and the financial outlays. Knowledge of specific infrastructure projects like airport terminals is also relevant for questions on national development and connectivity initiatives.

Key Points for Exam
  • PM Modi launched UDAN 5.0 scheme.
  • The outlay for UDAN 5.0 is Rs 28,840 crore.
  • A new terminal building was inaugurated at Jodhpur Airport.
  • The Jodhpur terminal was built at a cost of Rs 480 crore.
  • UDAN stands for 'Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik'.
  • The scheme aims to enhance regional air connectivity.
Important Keywords Explained
UDAN Schemescheme

UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) is a regional airport development and 'Regional Connectivity Scheme' (RCS) of the Government of India. Launched in 2016, it aims to make air travel affordable and widespread, promoting inclusive national economic growth. It subsidizes airlines to operate on unserved and underserved routes, connecting smaller towns and cities.

Jodhpur Airportplace

Jodhpur Airport (JDH) is a civil enclave airport in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India. It shares its airfield with the Indian Air Force. The new terminal building aims to boost its passenger handling capacity, supporting tourism and economic activities in the Marwar region of Rajasthan.

Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)concept

RCS is a component of the UDAN scheme. It focuses on developing regional air travel by providing financial incentives to airlines. This helps reduce the cost of air tickets on specific routes, making air travel accessible to a larger population and connecting remote areas to major cities.

Additional Facts & Context
1The first UDAN flight was flagged off in April 2017.
2Over 1.3 crore passengers have flown on UDAN flights as of early 2023.
3More than 475 UDAN routes have been operationalized connecting 74 airports.
4The Ministry of Civil Aviation is the nodal ministry for the UDAN scheme.
Examiner's Tip

UPSC and SSC often ask about the objectives, key features, and financial outlays of major government schemes like UDAN. Be prepared for questions on the year of launch, nodal ministry, and the impact on regional development.

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Memory Trick

UDAN: 'Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik' - think 'UDAAN' (flight) for the 'Aam Nagrik' (common citizen) to fly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main objective of the UDAN scheme in India?

The main objective of the UDAN scheme is to make air travel affordable and accessible to the common citizen by connecting unserved and underserved airports. It aims to boost economic growth, employment, and tourism in regional areas of India.

When was the UDAN scheme first launched by the Indian government?

The UDAN scheme was first launched by the Government of India in October 2016. It is a key component of the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) and has seen several phases of implementation since its inception.

What is the significance of the new terminal at Jodhpur Airport?

The new terminal at Jodhpur Airport, built at Rs 480 crore, significantly increases its passenger handling capacity. This expansion is crucial for accommodating more flights and passengers, thereby boosting tourism and economic activity in the Jodhpur region of Rajasthan.

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