PM Modi Opens New Jodhpur Airport Terminal, Unveils ₹28,840 Crore UDAN Scheme
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new terminal building at Jodhpur airport and launched the Modified UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme on Saturday, July 4, 2026. The event marks a significant step in enhancing regional air connectivity and infrastructure development in Rajasthan.
Upon arrival at Jodhpur, the Prime Minister was received by Governor Haribhau Bagade, Union Minister and Jodhpur MP Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma. He unveiled the inauguration plaque remotely and toured the new terminal, which was built at a cost of ₹480 crore.
The new terminal spans over 23,000 square metres and is designed to handle up to 20 lakh (2 million) passengers annually. It is equipped with modern amenities to ensure a seamless travel experience, including spacious lounges, advance baggage handling systems, and digital information displays.
Architecturally, the terminal draws inspiration from Rajasthan's royal heritage, incorporating traditional elements such as arches and jharokhas alongside contemporary design. During the visit, folk artistes presented cultural performances, reflecting the region's vibrant traditions.
The Prime Minister also launched the Modified UDAN Scheme, with a financial allocation of ₹28,840 crore over the next 10 years. This revamped scheme aims to accelerate aviation-led development by focusing on strategic components such as enhancing connectivity to remote and underserved regions, supporting regional airlines, and promoting tourism. The original UDAN scheme, launched in 2016, has already connected over 70 unserved and underserved airports.
The new terminal and the modified scheme are expected to boost economic activity in Jodhpur and surrounding areas, facilitate tourism, and improve mobility for citizens. Officials stated that the terminal's construction generated local employment and used sustainable materials.
This development aligns with the government's broader infrastructure push, including the expansion of airports under the Regional Connectivity Scheme. The Jodhpur airport upgrade is part of a larger plan to modernise 100 airports across the country.
