Gandhinagar: In a major push to strengthen domestic air connectivity, the Central Government has approved the Regional Connectivity Scheme – Modified UDAN for a period of ten years from FY 2026–27 to FY 2035–36, with a total outlay of ₹28,840 crore. Under the modified UDAN scheme, the government plans to develop 100 airports from existing unserved airstrips to enhance regional connectivity across the country.

As part of this plan, 11 greenfield airports have been proposed in Gujarat to improve regional connectivity, promote tourism and support industrial growth in different parts of the state.

The proposed airports in Gujarat include Ankleshwar, Morbi, Rajpipla, Botad, Dwarka, Dhordo (Kutch), Rajula, Dahod, Ambaji, Dholavira and Palitana.

Boost to tourism, industry and tribal regions

The new airports are expected to benefit major religious and tourist destinations such as Dwarka, Ambaji, Dholavira and Palitana, while improved connectivity to Dhordo is likely to strengthen tourism linked to the Rann Utsav.

Industrial centres like Ankleshwar, Morbi and Rajula are also expected to gain from better air connectivity, which could help attract new investment and generate employment opportunities.

The proposed airport in Dahod is considered particularly important, as the tribal-dominated district currently lacks strong air connectivity.

Status of proposed airports

According to available details, land acquisition has begun in Dwarka and Dahod, while feasibility or technical studies have been completed or are underway in Morbi, Dhordo, Dholavira and Rajpipla.

Projects in Botad, Rajula and Palitana are facing viability or practical challenges, while Ambaji is currently in the planning stage.

The Ankleshwar airport project is close to reality, with the airstrip ready and supporting infrastructure work progressing at a fast pace. DeshGujarat