Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN)
Also called the Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS).
Context and Purpose
For decades, air travel in India was seen as a luxury—affordable only to a small section of society. Large parts of the country, especially small towns, hilly areas, and the North-East, were left disconnected from air services.
👉 To correct this imbalance, the Government launched the UDAN scheme in 2016, as part of the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP).
- Purpose: To make air travel affordable, increase regional connectivity, and ensure balanced economic growth across regions.
- Type: Central Sector Scheme (fully funded by the Union Government).
- Implementing Agency: Airports Authority of India (AAI).
Core Idea
The scheme rests on two simple pillars:
- Making flying affordable for the common man (Aam Naagrik).
Example: Under UDAN 5.3, airfare is capped at ₹3,828 for a flight covering 501–525 km. - Making flights viable for airlines.
Airlines are often hesitant to operate in small towns because of low passenger demand. To address this, the government provides Viability Gap Funding (VGF) and concessions.
✦ Who provides VGF? → From the Regional Connectivity Fund (RCF).
✦ How is RCF funded? → By putting a small levy on certain domestic flights.
Thus, passengers pay less, airlines don’t suffer losses, and connectivity expands.
Salient Features
Let us look at some major highlights of UDAN:
- National Civil Aviation Policy (2016): UDAN was born out of this comprehensive policy vision.
- Removal of distance restriction: Earlier, UDAN was limited to routes up to 600 km. But under UDAN 5.0, this cap has been removed. Now, airlines can propose longer routes too.
- Demand and Market-based model: States and airports are also partners. They must provide:
- Free land for RCS airports
- Free security & fire services
- Reduced charges for utilities (like electricity, water)
- Regional Connectivity Fund Targets:
- 30 crore domestic passengers by 2022
- 50 crore domestic passengers by 2027
- Current Status: only 1.46 crore tickets by late 2024
Special Focus Areas
Some regions require extra attention due to geographical constraints.
- UDAN 4.0 gave priority to:
- North-Eastern states
- Hilly regions
- Islands
- Special aircraft like helicopters and seaplanes are encouraged for these difficult terrains.
Key Initiatives under UDAN
Over time, UDAN has expanded into sub-initiatives to address specific needs:
- Krishi UDAN
- Supports farmers in transporting agricultural products by air.
- Helps farmers get better value for perishable products like fruits, vegetables, and fish.
- Especially focuses on the North-East and tribal districts.
- International Air Connectivity Scheme (IACS)
- Extends the idea of UDAN beyond domestic routes.
- Helps states set up international flight connectivity on demand (for example, from Guwahati to nearby international destinations).
Why is UDAN Important?
- It democratizes air travel—turning it from a luxury to a basic mode of transport.
- It supports balanced regional development by connecting remote and backward areas.
- It boosts tourism, trade, and investment.
- It integrates farmers and local producers with national and global markets.
✅ In summary: UDAN is not just about cheaper flight tickets—it is about bringing connectivity, inclusivity, and growth to regions long ignored by mainstream air services. It makes the dream of “Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik” (Every Indian should be able to fly) a reality.