"New terminal reflects culture, architecture of Marwar": Ram Mohan Naidu hails Jodhpur Airport, announces new phase of UDAN scheme
Jodhpur, July 4
Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu on Saturday described the new airport terminal in Jodhpur as a major foundation for the development of Western Rajasthan, stating it will provide a new direction to the region's economy, tourism, trade, and employment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new terminal building of Jodhpur Airport earlier in the day and also launched the modified UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme during his visit to Rajasthan. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma was also present on the occasion.
Speaking to the media during the Prime Minister's visit to Jodhpur, the Civil Aviation Minister emphasised that the project is more than just a terminal building. He credited Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat for playing a significant role in the timely completion of the project, noting that Shekhawat continuously reviewed the construction work and personally monitored every small and large aspect, including the architecture, tiles, and glass.
"I would like to thank the people of Jodhpur. We have done this for them. The Prime Minister has a clear vision that wherever civil aviation expands, it benefits not only the passengers but also the economy of the entire city, trade, education, tourism and every sector as well as citizens. We can see the effect across the country today. The new terminal reflects the culture, heritage, and architecture of Marwar, allowing arriving passengers to experience the rich cultural identity of Rajasthan," Naidu said.
Highlighting the growth of the aviation sector in the region, Naidu informed that in the last 10 years, the annual passenger capacity of Jodhpur Airport has increased from approximately 4 lakh to nearly 11 lakh. He added that the government's goal is now to further increase air connectivity with other major cities and work toward starting international flights in the future.
"Better air connectivity will provide a major boost to Jodhpur's handicrafts, local markets, tourism, and especially the city's identity as a wedding destination. The Ministry will work continuously in this direction," Naidu added.
The Union Minister also announced the launch of a new phase of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme today. He stated that over the last decade, the UDAN scheme has brought revolutionary changes to the civil aviation sector in the country, and the expansion of air services across the nation will continue with the same vision in the coming years.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone who visited Jodhpur last year for a wedding, this makes so much sense! The old terminal was too small for the influx of tourists. The cultural design is a smart touch—it gives you a taste of Rajasthan before you even step out. But I wonder if infrastructure like roads and parking can keep up with the increased air traffic. Also, international flights would be a game-changer for business travelers like me. Let's see if the execution matches the vision. ✈️
Finally some attention to Western Rajasthan! Jodhpur has always been a cultural gem but the airport felt stuck in time. This new terminal and the UDAN scheme expansion could really boost local artisans and wedding tourism. But I honestly feel the government should also invest in better train connectivity—not everyone can afford flights. And while the architecture is beautiful, I hope the maintenance will be good. One big concern: will the new terminal be accessible for differently-abled passengers?? That's often overlooked in our airports. 🙏🏽
UDAN scheme has genuinely improved regional air connectivity—I've used it to fly from Delhi to Hubli at very reasonable prices. Expanding it to Rajasthan makes economic sense. Jodhpur's handicrafts and wedding industry could indeed benefit. However, I'm skeptical about the "international flights" promise. We've heard that before for many airports. The real test will be if airlines actually start operating those routes sustainably. Also, one thing the article doesn't mention: what about the environmental impact of all this expansion? Just a thought. 🌍
Fully support the development, but sometimes I wonder—why does every new airport terminal need to be inaugurated by PM Modi? Local projects should have local celebrations. That said, I'm happy for Shekhawat ji's efforts—he's done good work for Rajasthan. But I hope the "cultural architecture
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