What is UDAN 2.0? Full Details of India’s Regional Connectivity Scheme

Union Cabinet has approved the modified UDAN 2.0 scheme with financial outlay of ₹28,840 crore. The projection plan is aims to develop 100 new airports and 200 helipads with enhancing connectivity in remote and under represented region. The scheme was announced by Ashwini Vaishnaw and it is expected to boost tourism, trade and accessibility with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

What is Modified UDAN 2.0 Scheme?

The UDAN Scheme (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) is a flagship scheme of the government and it was launched in 2016 to make air travel affordable and accessible.

The UDAN 2.0 version builds upon the success by focusing on expansion and sustainability of regional aviation.

It now aims to connect Tier-2, Tier-3 cities and remote areas via affordable flights and improved infrastructure.

Unlike early phases UDAN 2.0 put strong emphasizes long-term viability, modern infrastructure and inclusion of new aviation segments like seaplanes and helicopters.

Key Features of UDAN 2.0

The revamped scheme has introduced the several major upgrades to India’s aviation ecosystem.

Major Highlights,

• 100 new airports to be developed
• 200 modern helipads for remote connectivity
• ₹12,159 crore allocated for airport development
• ₹3,661 crore for helipad construction
• Support for seaplane and regional aircraft operations

Funding Structure & Viability Gap Support

A key pillar of the UDAN 2.0 is its strong financial support system to ensure sustainability.

The government will provide the 80–90% Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for airlines and  making routes commercially viable.

A total of ₹10,043 crore has been allocated for this purpose.

Additionally, Operations & Maintenance (O&M) support will be provided,

• Up to ₹3 crore per airport annually
• Up to ₹90 lakh per helipad annually
• Total O&M support: ₹2,577 crore

Impact on Economy, Tourism & Connectivity

It is expected to bring transformative changes across multiple sectors.

Improved air connectivity will boost the tourism in those region which are unexplored especially those in the North-East, hilly areas and islands.

It will also enhance trade and logistics and will be enabling faster movement of goods.

Question

Q. UDAN scheme was originally launched in which year?

A. 2014
B. 2015
C. 2016
D. 2018