'Challenge Mode' for Aerodrome Development under Next Phase of UDAN Scheme

On September 22, 2026, Union Minister of Civil Aviation Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu launched the 'Challenge Mode' portal in New Delhi for aerodrome development under the next phase of the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme. On this occasion, the Ministry of Civil Aviation signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with 21 States/Union Territories.

Key Points

Challenge Mode: Under this initiative, States and Union Territories will be able to nominate airstrips and helipads for development through a dedicated portal. The scheme document for the upcoming route-bidding process was also released.
Four Key Pillars: The revised UDAN scheme is built on passenger affordability, operational sustainability, a transparent challenge mode, and boosting domestic manufacturing.
UDAN Progress: To date, 687 routes and 95 aerodromes have been operationalized under the scheme, with approximately 1.71 crore passengers traveling across more than 3.66 lakh flights.
Next Phase Goal: The target for the next 10 years is to connect 120 new destinations and provide regional air connectivity to an additional 4 crore passengers. Official sources noted an emphasis on developing smaller airports and helipads during this phase.