Noida International Airport Phase-I Inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi; Boost to UP’s Aviation and Economic Growth.
New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated the Phase-I of the Noida International Airport at Jewar in Uttar Pradesh, marking a significant milestone in India’s expanding aviation infrastructure. Developed at an estimated cost of Rs. 11,200 crore, the project is being seen as a major catalyst for regional development and a cornerstone of the “Viksit Bharat” vision.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister described the inauguration as a “new chapter in the Viksit UP, Viksit Bharat Abhiyan.” He expressed pride in having both laid the foundation stone and inaugurated the airport, emphasizing its symbolic and strategic importance for the state.
Boost to Regional Connectivity and Economy
The newly inaugurated airport is expected to benefit a wide region of western Uttar Pradesh, including Agra, Mathura, Aligarh, Ghaziabad, Meerut, Etawah, Bulandshahr, and Faridabad. PM Modi highlighted that the airport will open new avenues for farmers, small and medium enterprises, and youth by connecting the region directly to global markets.
“Aircraft will fly from here to the world, making this airport a symbol of a developed Uttar Pradesh taking flight,” he said.
UP Among Top States in International Airports
The Prime Minister noted that Uttar Pradesh has emerged as one of the states with the highest number of international airports in India. He reiterated that airports are not just infrastructure assets but engines of economic growth and progress.
Infrastructure Push Amid Global Challenges
Referring to ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia and their impact on global supply chains, PM Modi assured that the government is taking all necessary steps to shield citizens and farmers from rising costs of essential commodities such as fuel and fertilizers.
Despite global uncertainties, he underlined that India continues to witness rapid infrastructure growth. He cited recent developments in western Uttar Pradesh, including the expansion of the Delhi-Meerut Namo Bharat corridor, the Meerut Metro, and the foundation of a semiconductor manufacturing facility in Noida.
Multi-Modal Connectivity and Logistics Hub
Highlighting the strategic importance of the region, the Prime Minister said the airport complements existing freight corridors and logistics networks. With Dadri serving as a key junction of freight corridors, the region is poised to become a major logistics and investment hub.
“This kind of multi-modal connectivity is attracting investors from across the world,” he noted.
Support to Farmers and Ethanol Economy
PM Modi also acknowledged the contribution of farmers, particularly sugarcane growers, in supporting India’s ethanol blending program. He stated that increased ethanol production has significantly reduced the country’s dependence on crude oil imports, saving substantial foreign exchange.
He added that improved infrastructure would enhance food processing industries and enable agricultural produce from the region to reach international markets more efficiently.
Expansion of Aviation Sector
The Prime Minister highlighted the rapid growth of India’s aviation sector, noting that the country now has over 160 airports, with improved connectivity to smaller cities under the UDAN scheme. He also announced plans for further expansion, including the construction of 100 new airports and 200 helipads nationwide.
He pointed out that rising demand for air travel is generating employment opportunities in aviation, including pilots, cabin crew, and maintenance professionals.
Focus on Self-Reliance in MRO Sector
Addressing gaps in aircraft maintenance infrastructure, PM Modi announced the foundation of a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at Jewar. He said this initiative aims to reduce dependence on foreign MRO services and position India as a global aviation services hub.
Massive Infrastructure Investments
Reiterating the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, the Prime Minister said that investments in the sector have increased more than sixfold in the past decade. He highlighted achievements such as extensive highway construction, near-complete railway electrification, and enhanced port and inland waterway capacity.
Call for Unity
Concluding his address, PM Modi urged citizens and political parties to remain united and resilient amid global challenges. He emphasized that national interest remains the guiding principle of the government’s policies.
The inauguration of the Noida International Airport is expected to significantly enhance connectivity, drive economic growth, and reinforce India’s position as one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world.
