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Punjab CM Pushes for More International Flights from Mohali to Boost Economy

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has advocated for increasing international flights from Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Mohali to stimulate economic growth. He emphasized that better global air links would facilitate trade, attract investment, and create job opportunities for the youth. The push comes as the airport's operator, CHIAL, presented an interim dividend of Rs 19 crore to the government, highlighting its financial progress. Mann believes expanded operations will position Punjab as a prime destination for international business and tourism.

Key Points: Punjab CM Advocates More International Flights from Mohali Airport

  • Boost economic activity
  • Enhance global connectivity
  • Generate youth employment
  • Attract international investment
2 min read

Punjab CM bats for more international flights from Mohali airport

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann calls for expanded international flights from Mohali's airport to boost tourism, investment, and job creation in the region.

Punjab CM bats for more international flights from Mohali airport
"The Punjab government is committed to expand international operations from Mohali to connect the vibrant state with global destinations. - CM Bhagwant Mann"

Chandigarh, Jan 2

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday batted for starting more international flights from Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Mohali, asserting that expanded overseas operations would significantly boost economic activity, tourism and investment across the region.

The remarks came as Chandigarh International Airport Limited (CHIAL) handed over a cheque for Rs 19 crore as interim dividend to the government, a development the Punjab CM cited as evidence of the airport's steady growth. He said stronger global air links from Mohali would ease access for entrepreneurs and traders, generate employment for the state's youth, and position Punjab as a competitive destination for international business and tourism.

Interacting with officers of CHIAL, CM Mann said the sustained growth of Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport reflects the strong partnership between the Centre and Punjab governments. "The Punjab government is committed to expand international operations from Mohali to connect the vibrant state with global destinations. It will help in creating new job opportunities for the youth, thereby giving fillip to the economy of Punjab," he added.

The Chief Minister said it would help easy movement of the entrepreneurs, traders and industrialists of the region and from across the globe to the state, thereby boosting trade, commerce and economic activity in the region.

"Starting more flights from this airport will facilitate the people of the region, besides wooing the leading entrepreneurs across the globe to make huge investments in the state. I hope that it will act as a catalyst to propel industrialisation in the state, besides showcasing Punjab as the most preferred investment destination," he added.

Meanwhile, the CHIAL management expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister and the government for their guidance, support and cooperation, which have driven the airport's development and operational excellence. The dividend for 2025-26 was declared by the CHIAL board on December 12, 2025.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who travels frequently for work, this is excellent news. The connectivity from Chandigarh is currently limited. More international options will save so much time and could attract more MNCs to set up offices in the tricity area.
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Priya S
Good step, but I hope the focus is also on improving the basic infrastructure around the airport. Better roads, public transport, and facilities are needed to handle the increased traffic. Otherwise, it's just a half-baked plan.
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Rohit P
Finally! This has been needed for years. It will be a big boost for local businesses, especially agriculture exports. Imagine sending our Kinnows and Basmati directly to international markets faster. More jobs for sure. 👍
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Meera T
While the intent is good, I'm cautiously optimistic. We've heard similar promises before. The key is execution and making sure the flights are affordable for common people, not just business class. Hope it materializes soon.
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Vikram M
This is strategic thinking. Punjab needs to diversify its economy beyond agriculture. Better global connectivity can attract tech and manufacturing investments. The dividend payment shows the airport is doing well, so expansion makes perfect sense.

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