Budget 2025-26 unveils ₹25,000 Cr Maritime Fund, UDAN expansion to 120 destinations, and major air cargo infrastructure upgrades.
The Union Budget 2025-26 has announced game-changing reforms for India’s shipping and aviation sectors:
Maritime Boost:
- A Maritime Development Fund of ₹25,000 crore will be set up for long-term financing, with 49% government contribution and private sector involvement.
- The Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy is to be revamped to reduce cost disadvantages, including credit notes for shipbreaking.
- Shipbuilding clusters are to be developed with added infrastructure, skilling, and technology investments.
- Basic customs duty exemption on shipbuilding materials extended for 10 years to boost the industry.
Aviation Growth:
- Modified the UDAN scheme to connect 120 new destinations and carry 4 crore passengers in 10 years.
- Regional connectivity is to expand, benefiting hilly regions, aspirational districts, and the Northeast.
- Air cargo infrastructure upgrade, including warehousing and streamlined customs for high-value perishable exports.
Bihar Infrastructure Development:
- Greenfield airports are planned in Bihar alongside the expansion of Patna airport and a brownfield airport at Bihta.
- Western Koshi Canal ERM Project to support 50,000 hectares of farmland in Mithilanchal.
With these initiatives, India aims to strengthen global maritime trade, regional aviation connectivity, and logistics competitiveness.
(SOURCE: PIB Delhi)
