New Delhi, May 20: Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjirapu Ram Mohan Naidu stated on Wednesday that India must remain vigilant amid the deteriorating geopolitical situation in West Asia. He emphasized that the current circumstances are not a major concern for India at this time.
During his first visit to Ranchi, the minister spoke to reporters, noting that the government and key sectors, including aviation, are continuously monitoring the evolving situation and developing strategies to address any potential impacts.
Naidu remarked, “While the situation is not alarming right now, we need to stay alert. Every sector, including civil aviation, must assess its effects and prepare short-term, medium-term, and long-term strategies.”
Addressing concerns about rising airfares amid global uncertainty, the minister assured that the central government has already taken steps to prevent additional financial burdens on passengers.
He explained that the government has reduced the prices of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) and lowered landing and parking fees at airports to support airlines and maintain fare stability.
Naidu also referenced the Delhi government’s recent decision to cut the Value-Added Tax on ATF from 25% to 7%.
He stated, “Approximately five lakh passengers travel daily on domestic routes. We are closely monitoring airfares. If demand increases, we will enhance connectivity and deploy more aircraft.”
During his visit, the minister launched several initiatives for passengers at Birsa Munda Airport and announced that a revised version of the Regional Connectivity Scheme, ‘UDAN’, will soon be initiated with an estimated allocation of ₹29,000 crores.
The revised scheme aims to develop 100 new airports and 200 helipads over the next decade.
The government is also planning to expand the ‘UDAN Passenger Café’ initiative at airports to provide affordable meal options for travelers.
Highlighting the central government’s aviation roadmap, the minister stated that modernizing airports and improving connectivity with major cities in India remain top priorities.
He concluded, “In the past decade, the number of airports, passengers, and aircraft has doubled. In 2014, there were only 74 airports; now, there are 165 across the country. No other country has seen such rapid growth in airport numbers.”
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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