The Government of Rajasthan, in collaboration with the central government, is taking significant steps to strengthen the state’s civil aviation infrastructure. A high-level meeting was held at the State Hangar in Jaipur on Saturday to discuss the expansion of aviation facilities across the state.
The meeting was attended by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, and Minister of State for Civil Aviation (Independent Charge) Gautam Kumar Dak, along with senior officials.
Focus on Expanding Air Connectivity in Rajasthan
During the meeting, leaders discussed several key issues aimed at improving aviation services in Rajasthan. The agenda included:
Expansion of air services across the state
Upgrading and increasing the number of airstrips
Development work at existing airports
Improving flight connectivity
Exploring opportunities for new Greenfield airports
These initiatives are expected to strengthen the state’s aviation ecosystem and contribute to economic growth.
Domestic Airport Development is Essential – Om Birla
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla highlighted Rajasthan’s vast geographical area and stressed the need for improved air connectivity.
He stated that the state requires new airstrips and domestic airports to ensure easier access to religious destinations, tourism hubs, educational institutions, and commercial centers.
Better aviation infrastructure, he noted, will significantly improve connectivity and support regional development.
Proposal for an Independent Aviation Directorate
Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu suggested establishing an independent directorate for civil aviation in Rajasthan.
According to the minister, such a body would help improve the management, operation, and regulation of aviation services, enabling the sector to grow more efficiently within the state.
New Flights and Infrastructure to Strengthen Aviation Sector
Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma emphasized that the state government is already working on a structured plan to improve air connectivity and develop modern aviation facilities.
He said efforts should focus on expanding air services between districts through the RCS-UDAN scheme, while also introducing new flights from major airports.
The Chief Minister also proposed several infrastructure developments, including:
Planning for a Civil Enclave at Suratgarh
Development work at Lalgarh airstrip
Exploring Greenfield airport projects in
Deeg-Kumher
Sirohi
Sikar
Bhiwadi
Boost to Regional Development and Tourism
According to the Chief Minister, expanding aviation infrastructure will support regional development and provide alternative airport options during emergencies.
Additionally, improved connectivity will:
Promote tourism across the state
Increase business and trade activities
Benefit the large population of Non-Resident Rajasthanis (NRRs)
He also directed officials to accelerate work on the Civil Enclave and approach road at Uttarlai Airport.
Senior Officials Attend Strategic Meeting
The meeting was also attended by senior government officials including:
Chief Secretary V. Srinivas
Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Akhil Arora
Chairman of Airports Authority of India Vipin Kumar
Principal Secretary, Civil Aviation Department Naveen Jain
Officials from the Chief Minister’s Office and other relevant departments were also present.
