Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the next phase of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, termed Viksit UDAN, and inaugurated the New Terminal Building at Jodhpur Airport. The Modified UDAN Scheme was approved by the Union Cabinet on 25 March 2026 with an outlay of approximately ₹29,000 crore over the next ten years to accelerate aviation-led development and advance the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The Modified UDAN Scheme focuses on expanding regional aviation infrastructure through the development of 100 aerodromes from existing unserved airstrips with an investment of ₹12,159 crore. It provides ₹2,577 crore towards Operations and Maintenance support for regional airports, development of 200 modern helipads with an investment of ₹3,661 crore, and continued Viability Gap Funding of ₹10,043 crore to sustain regional airline operations. The scheme promotes the induction of indigenous aircraft and helicopters, including HAL Dhruv and Dornier platforms, for operations in underserved and remote regions.
The newly inaugurated Jodhpur Airport Terminal Building was developed by the Airports Authority of India at a cost of ₹480 crore. Spread across 23,342 square metres, the terminal is designed to handle 1,500 passengers during peak hours and 20 lakh passengers annually. It features 20 check-in counters, advanced security screening systems, modern baggage handling facilities, six aerobridges, and an apron that can accommodate 11 A-321 aircraft and one ATR-72 aircraft. The city-side infrastructure provides parking for approximately 320 cars.
The existing terminal had reached saturation with an annual capacity of about 4 lakh passengers. The new facility incorporates sustainable features such as energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures, and green building practices aimed at achieving a 5-Star GRIHA rating. Architecturally, it blends traditional Rajasthani elements such as arches and jharokhas with contemporary design.
The UDAN Scheme, launched in October 2016, has already operationalized 669 routes and connected 95 airports, heliports, and water aerodromes, benefitting over 1.66 crore passengers. The new phase aims to further strengthen last-mile connectivity and ensure economic development, tourism, employment, and social inclusion across all regions of the country.