The Parliamentary Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Civil Aviation met in Mysuru, Karnataka, chaired by Union Minister Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, marking the first meeting outside Delhi since 2017. The committee discussed the next phase of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme with unprecedented funding commitment of ₹28,840 crore, building on previous investments of approximately ₹10,000 crore in airport development and viability gap funding over the past decade.
The meeting focused on strengthening India's pilot training ecosystem, with significant expansion of Flying Training Organizations (FTOs) from 32 in 2020 to 41 in 2026, and flying bases increasing from 32 to 63 during the same period. The Ministry has implemented an FTO ranking framework to ensure transparent accountability and help aspiring pilots make informed career decisions.
Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA) has achieved remarkable transformation with aircraft utilization averaging 1,765 flying hours annually per aircraft, exceeding the global benchmark of approximately 1,500 hours. The institution recorded a budget surplus for the first time in over two decades, ending recurring deficits.
Minister Naidu emphasized that India's aviation growth is expanding beyond major destinations to become an engine of regional development and inclusive economic growth, benefiting farmers, exporters, businesses, and communities. He highlighted that Indian airlines have placed unprecedented aircraft orders globally, but stressed the need to develop domestic workforce capabilities rather than importing skilled labor to operate this growth.
The meeting was attended by Union Minister of State Shri Murlidhar Mohol, several Members of Parliament from various states, and senior officials including Secretary Shri Samir Kumar Sinha, DGCA Director General Shri Vir Vikram Yadav, AAI Chairman Shri Vipin Kumar, and BCAS Director General Shri Rajesh Nirwan.