Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu announced the government’s ambitious plan to increase the number of airports in India from 157 to 350, aiming to boost connectivity and tourism. Speaking at an event held at Vigyan Bhawan to mark World Tourism Day, Naidu emphasized the importance of airport expansion for the nation’s growth. By 2047, the government envisions India as a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (developed India) and sees improved airport infrastructure as a key component in achieving that goal.
Naidu highlighted the vital role airports play in connecting domestic and international travelers to various parts of the country. He stated that by expanding airport numbers, the government aims to connect more of India’s hinterlands and remote locations, which are often home to unexplored tourist sites. The minister underscored how better connectivity will not only boost tourism but also provide economic opportunities to areas that have remained untapped due to lack of access.
The aviation ministry is committed to supporting the tourism sector, with Naidu describing airports as “gateways to a country.” He emphasized that airports are often the first point of contact for foreign tourists and stressed the importance of offering top-tier facilities and warm hospitality. The expansion plan will ensure that more airports across India are equipped with the necessary infrastructure to handle increased footfall, both domestic and international.
Naidu explained that while India currently has 157 operational airports, the target of 350 within the next 20 to 25 years is ambitious but necessary for the country’s future. He noted that the government sees this goal as essential for achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047. This initiative aligns with the broader government agenda to improve the country’s infrastructure and expand its role as a global economic power.
The aviation minister also commended the Union Tourism Ministry for its efforts in promoting tourism in India. He praised Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat’s announcement that, under the ‘Chalo India’ campaign, one lakh foreign tourists will soon be exempted from paying visa fees. Naidu believes that this move will act as an incentive for international tourists to visit India, further bolstering the tourism sector.
As tourism plays a crucial role in India’s economy, these efforts to expand airport capacity and enhance the overall travel experience are expected to lead to significant growth in the industry. Naidu emphasized that tourism is not just about visiting famous sites, but also about exploring the lesser-known gems of India, particularly in remote and rural areas. The government’s push to connect these regions through an expanded airport network will open up new possibilities for tourists and provide economic benefits to local communities.
The tourism sector has long been recognized for its ability to generate employment and support the livelihoods of millions of people. With the increase in connectivity, more tourists will be able to access remote destinations, thereby creating jobs in these regions and helping local businesses thrive. Naidu believes that this initiative will transform the tourism landscape, making travel more accessible and appealing to both domestic and international tourists.
At the World Tourism Day event, Naidu also highlighted the importance of sustainability in tourism development. The government’s plans to expand the aviation sector are being accompanied by a focus on reducing the carbon footprint and ensuring that new airports meet global environmental standards. Naidu mentioned that the aviation industry will play a crucial role in achieving India’s broader sustainability goals, with airports and airlines working together to adopt greener practices.
The aviation minister’s announcement comes at a time when India is witnessing a steady rise in air travel, driven by increasing disposable incomes and a growing middle class. The government’s efforts to make air travel more affordable and accessible have contributed to this trend, and the expansion of airport infrastructure will further facilitate the growth of the sector.
By investing in airport development and improving connectivity, the government is working to position India as a global leader in tourism. Naidu’s vision of expanding the number of airports by 2047 aligns with the country’s broader goals of achieving economic prosperity and global recognition as a developed nation.
The minister further elaborated on how the expansion of airports will not only cater to the needs of tourists but also facilitate trade and business in underdeveloped regions. With better air connectivity, remote parts of India will see a surge in economic activities, from local markets to larger-scale trade. This initiative is expected to enhance India’s standing in global commerce, as the government aims to link these regions to international markets through more efficient transportation networks.
Naidu also pointed out that airport modernization is equally important as expansion. He mentioned that existing airports will undergo significant upgrades to meet global standards. These upgrades will include the incorporation of cutting-edge technology, improved passenger amenities, and better safety protocols. The focus will be on making the airport experience seamless and comfortable for travelers, enhancing India’s appeal as a tourist destination.
Additionally, Naidu emphasized the importance of regional connectivity schemes like UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik), which aim to make air travel more affordable and accessible to all citizens. He reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding UDAN’s reach, ensuring that even the smallest towns and cities are connected by air. This will encourage more domestic tourism, allowing Indians to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures within their own country.
The minister acknowledged that building 350 airports is a mammoth task but assured that the government is approaching it with strategic planning. He mentioned that the private sector would play a crucial role in achieving this target, through public-private partnerships (PPP) and other collaborative models. These partnerships will bring in both financial resources and technical expertise, helping to complete projects more efficiently and on schedule.
Naidu concluded his address by highlighting the tourism sector’s resilience in the face of challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that despite setbacks, tourism is bouncing back stronger, with the government’s initiatives providing the necessary support. The expansion of airports, coupled with visa fee exemptions and increased marketing of India’s tourist sites, will pave the way for an even more robust tourism industry in the coming decades.