Narendra Modi Highlights Growth and Inclusivity in India's Aviation Sector

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the unprecedented growth and inclusivity in India's aviation sector during the second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation. He highlighted the success of the UDAN scheme, efforts to create a network of opportunities, and the importance of innovation and sustainable growth in the aviation sector.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the transformative growth and inclusivity of India's aviation sector at the second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation in the national capital on Thursday. He pointed out that air travel, once exclusive, has become more inclusive and affordable, courtesy of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme. Modi invited delegates to study the success of UDAN and called for the creation of a 'network of opportunities' through aviation in the Asia Pacific region.

Addressing nearly 300 representatives from 29 nations, Modi proposed the formation of an international Buddhist circuit via air connectivity to enhance opportunities for countries and people. He emphasized that India's middle class is a driving force for the aviation sector and highlighted the sector's rapid growth over the past decade, including efforts to make India a global aviation hub.

Modi stressed the significance of sustainable growth and innovation, pressing the need for investments in infrastructure, skilled manpower, and upgraded technology. He also noted that 15% of pilots in India are women, surpassing the global average of 5%, and hinted at the future reality of air taxis. The conference concluded with the proclamation of the Delhi Declaration amid rising travel demand and India's ambitions in advanced air mobility.

(With inputs from agencies.)