What is the need for expanding the regional air connectivity in India? In this context, discuss the government’s UDAN Scheme and its achievements.

Factors for growth of Aviation sector

1. Increased infrastructure penetration → 200 small airports and airstrips.
2. Increased per-capita income → increased by 300% from 1991.
3. Market competitiveness → affordability of air transport.
4. Awareness and government incentives → Krishi Rail & UDAN scheme; regional airports; Viability gap funding etc.
5. Increased connectivity by the aviation sector → 100+ domestic routes with increased flight frequency.
6. Globalisation → 279% increase in flights to Latin America, Central Asia (previously under-served areas).

Challenges

1. Poor operation and maintainance of airport infrastructure → only 20% of the airports are regularly updated & maintained → Fall of roof at Delhi's IGI airport.
2. High gestation period → 35 years + → reduces the private enthusiasm to serve remote areas.
3. Safety concerns.
4. Lack of PPP in aviation sector.
5. Low penetration of aviation sector in geographically remote terrains → North-East.

Measures

1. Increased PPP collaborations for airport construction, maintainance, risk sharing and operations.
2. Increased safety of aviation sector.
3. Route diversification to increase profitability of operations.
4. DGCA should ensure fair market practices to avoid monopolisation in the aviation sector.
5. FDI approvals should be automatic and single window clearances.