Budget outlines measures to boost air cargo infrastructure
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has welcomed the significant announcements made in Budget 2025-26, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening regional connectivity in the country and enhancing cargo infrastructure.
The Finance Minister in her address underscored the government’s focus on upgrading air cargo infrastructure. India’s air cargo sector is growing at over 10% annually, with airport cargo handling capacity reaching 8 million MT in FY24. There is a special focus on air cargo warehousing, particularly for perishables, opening up greater market opportunities for Indian producers and enhancing both export and domestic trade efficiency. Streamlining cargo screening and Customs protocols will enhance efficiency and promote ease of doing business in the sector.
UDAN, a transformative initiative, has thus far operationalised 619 routes and connected 88 airports across the country. Building on this success, a revamped UDAN initiative will be launched to further enhance regional connectivity, adding 120 new destinations. Additionally, the scheme will focus on supporting helipads and smaller airports in remote, hilly and aspirational districts, including the North Eastern region.
Over the past ten years, the number of airports has more than doubled to 159. And the government is committed to developing 50 more airports in the next 5 years, highlighted a Ministry release.