On a visit to Rajasthan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi handed Jodhpur Airport a major boost on Saturday. He inaugurated the airport's newly built terminal building by pressing a remote button, and used the same event to launch the next phase of the 'UDAN' scheme. According to officials, the entire project was developed at a cost of 480 crore rupees. Spread across more than 23,000 square metres, the new building is capable of handling 20 lakh passengers every year.
A Nod to Rajasthan's Royal Heritage
The new terminal has been designed to give travellers a smooth and comfortable journey, with modern passenger amenities built in throughout. What stands out is its architecture, which draws inspiration from Rajasthan's royal legacy. Traditional elements such as arches and jharokhas have been woven beautifully into a contemporary design.
Built With the Environment in Mind
Sustainability sits at the heart of the terminal's design. It features energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures and green building construction practices, all aimed at securing a 'Five-Star GRIHA' rating. The new terminal is expected to give a strong push to tourism, trade and job creation across Jodhpur and the surrounding region.
A Big Bet on the Revamped UDAN Scheme
At the same event, Modi launched the revised 'UDAN' scheme, which places special emphasis on regional connectivity by linking smaller towns to air services. Officials say it will give a major lift to India's aviation sector and prove to be a significant step for civil aviation. The scheme will also carry forward the vision of 'let the common citizen of the country fly.' An allocation of 28,840 crore rupees has been made under it, with the goal of accelerating aviation-led growth over the next 10 years. The initiative is meant to ensure that wide and lasting air connectivity keeps expanding across the country. Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat were also present on the occasion.
