100 New Airports, Faster Visa Services, Cheaper Flights & More; Govt Approves Rs 28,840 Crore UDAN Scheme

The Union Cabinet has approved three major decisions that are expected to improve regional air connectivity, modernise immigration services and accelerate India's clean energy transition. The approvals include a revamped UDAN scheme worth Rs 28,840 crore, an extension of the Immigration, Visa, Foreigners Registration and Tracking (IVFRT) program and updated climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.

100 New Airports Coming Under UDAN Scheme: Cheaper Flights & Big Benefits for Common People

Cabinet Approves Modified UDAN Scheme with Rs 28,840 Crore Outlay.

The government has approved the launch of the modified UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme for ten years, from 2026-27 to 2035-36, with an investment of Rs 28,840 crore.

The program aims to strengthen regional air connectivity by developing 100 airports from existing unserved and underserved airstrips across the country.

More Airports to Improve Connectivity in Smaller Cities

The new airports are expected to connect more Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities with the national aviation network. People living in smaller towns may get easier access to affordable flights, reducing travel time and improving connectivity for business, education and tourism.

The expansion is also expected to improve transportation in remote and hilly regions where road travel can often be difficult.

Boost for Tourism, Jobs and Local Businesses

Improved air connectivity is expected to encourage domestic tourism and support local businesses. Better transport links can also attract new investments, generate employment opportunities and strengthen regional economies.

Better Emergency and Healthcare Access

The government said the expansion of regional airports will also improve emergency medical transport and disaster response, particularly in remote locations where quick access can save lives.

Cabinet Extends IVFRT Scheme Till 2031

The Cabinet has also approved the continuation of the Immigration, Visa, Foreigners Registration and Tracking (IVFRT) scheme for another five years, from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2031, with a budget allocation of Rs 1,800 crore.

What Is IVFRT Scheme?

The IVFRT platform integrates immigration clearance, visa processing and foreigner registration into a single digital system.

Its objective is to make immigration services faster, more transparent and secure while improving coordination among different government agencies.

What It Means for Travellers

The upgraded digital platform is expected to make visa processing and immigration clearance more efficient for travellers entering or leaving India. It is also aimed at improving security through better monitoring and data management.

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