Manipur Chief Minister Pushes for Affordable Air Travel Under UDAN Scheme
In a significant move to address the critical need for reliable transportation, Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand has formally urged Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu to include the Imphal-Guwahati-Imphal route under the Regional Connectivity Scheme, known as Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (RCS-UDAN). This initiative aims to make air travel more affordable and accessible for the people of Manipur, who heavily depend on flights due to frequent disruptions in surface transport and incomplete railway links.
Essential Air Connectivity for Manipur
Chief Minister Khemchand emphasized that air connectivity is not just a luxury but an absolute necessity for Manipur. In his communication, he expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from the central government and acknowledged the role of airlines in maintaining essential air links. However, he pointed out a pressing issue: airfare on the Imphal-Guwahati sector remains disproportionately high compared to similar routes in other northeastern states with comparable distances.
"For the people of Manipur, air connectivity is not merely a convenience but an essential requirement," Khemchand stated, highlighting the state's reliance on flights amid challenges like road blockages and limited rail services.
State Government's Proactive Measures
To bolster the aviation sector, the Manipur government has taken proactive steps, including a substantial reduction in the Value Added Tax (VAT) on Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF). The VAT rate has been slashed from 20% to just 1%, a move designed to enhance air connectivity and promote tourism in the region.
Khemchand detailed these efforts in his letter, underscoring the state's commitment to improving the aviation ecosystem. He argued that including the Imphal-Guwahati-Imphal route under the RCS-UDAN scheme would complement these measures by directly lowering travel costs for residents.
Request for UDAN Scheme Inclusion
The Regional Connectivity Scheme – UDAN is a flagship program aimed at making air travel affordable and strengthening regional connectivity across India. By subsidizing flights on underserved routes, it helps reduce fares and increase accessibility.
In his appeal, Chief Minister Khemchand requested the civil aviation ministry to integrate the Imphal-Guwahati-Imphal route into this scheme. This inclusion would not only ease the financial burden on travelers but also support economic growth and social integration in Manipur, aligning with national goals for enhanced connectivity in the Northeast.
The move comes as Manipur continues to face logistical hurdles, making affordable air travel a top priority for both the state government and its citizens.
