India to Extend Regional Connectivity Scheme by 10 Years, Aiming for Aircraft Manufacturing Boom

Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu, announced the extension of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN for 10 more years. The initiative aims to expand India's airport network and establish the country as a global hub for aircraft manufacturing.

Claiming the "huge success" of the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS)-UDAN, Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu announced plans to extend the program for another 10 years. The scheme, launched in 2016, aims to make air travel affordable for the general population.

The minister revealed a vision to expand India's existing 157 airports to 400 by 2047, including waterdrome airports and heliports. "We believe there is an opportunity to double the number of airports, and we are working towards that," he stated.

Additionally, Kinjarapu highlighted the government's ambitions for India to enter aircraft manufacturing, potentially making the country a global hub in this sector. "Our goal is to build entire planes in India, even if some parts initially need to be sourced from other countries," he added. He assured that international giants like Airbus and Boeing are keen to partner with India in this endeavor.

(With inputs from agencies.)