Context:
Recently, the Prime Minister of India inaugurated three new airports, marking the 8th Anniversary of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) – UDAN , including Saharanpur, Rewa and Ambikapur.
About RCS-UDAN ((Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) Scheme:
- Launched: October 21, 2016.
- It is a vital component of India’s National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP), 2016, launched by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA).
- UDAN aims to enhance regional air connectivity from unserved and underserved airports across India, making air travel affordable for the masses.
- It has successfully facilitated air travel for over 1.44 crore passengers through 601 operationalized routes.
- It has doubled operational airports from 74 in 2014 to 157 in 2024, with ambitious plans to reach 350-400 airports by 2047.
- It has operationalized 86 aerodromes, including 71 airports, 13 heliports, and 2 water aerodromes.
Various versions of the UDAN Scheme were launched, as follows:
- UDAN 1.0: The inaugural version awarded 128 flight routes to five airlines, connecting 70 airports, including 36 newly operational facilities. This laid the foundation for regional air connectivity.
- UDAN 2.0: Expanded the scope to include 73 underserved and unserved airports and, for the first time, incorporated helipads into the network, enhancing last-mile connectivity.
- UDAN 3.0: Introduced tourism routes in coordination with the Ministry of Tourism, while also integrating seaplanes for water aerodrome connectivity and expanding routes in the Northeast region.
- UDAN 4.0: Prioritized connectivity in North-Eastern Regions, Hilly States, and Islands, with comprehensive integration of helicopter and seaplane operations.
- UDAN 5.0 Series: The latest iterations (5.0, 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 & 5.4) focus on larger aircraft categories, removed distance restrictions, and enhanced helicopter operations in remote areas.
Impact of RCS-UDAN:
Market-Driven Approach:
- UDAN operates on a market-driven model where airlines assess demand and submit proposals during bidding rounds.
- The government supports airlines through Viability Gap Funding (VGF) and various concessions to encourage connections to underserved regions.
Revival of the Aviation Industry:
- Over 601 routes have been operationalized, connecting 71 airports, with significant increases in passenger traffic.
- The scheme has led to the emergence of new regional airlines such as Flybig and Star Air, fostering a sustainable ecosystem for regional air travel.
- Indian carriers have placed orders for over 1,000 new aircraft, enhancing the existing fleet significantly.
Promoting Tourism:
- Initiatives like UDAN 3.0 and UDAN 5.1 target tourism routes and helicopter services in hilly areas, respectively.
- Destinations such as Khajuraho and Agatti Island have become more accessible, promoting religious and eco-tourism.
Boosting air Connectivity:
- RCS-UDAN has connected 34 states and Union Territories across the country
- It has operationalized 86 aerodromes, including ten in the Northeast region, facilitating travel across challenging terrains.
- Airports like Darbhanga and Jharsuguda have seen significant passenger growth since their revival under UDAN.