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The proposed civilian airport at Udhampur has moved a step closer to execution, with initial ATR flight services expected to begin in the coming months using temporary infrastructure within Air Force premises. The land transfer process is underway, and additional land will be provided for a permanent airport facility. Alongside aviation development, the government is also focusing on local economic initiatives such as promoting Kaladi under the One District One Product scheme and improving regional connectivity through the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway. Healthcare access and tourism infrastructure are also being expanded.
The proposed airport at Udhampur is progressing towards partial operationalisation, with small aircraft services expected to begin in the coming months. Union Minister Jitendra Singh reviewed the project and stated that ATR services are likely to start within five to six months as an interim arrangement, while the development of a full-scale airport will take more time. Advertisement
During a site review with senior central officials, it was decided that additional land would be transferred by the Jammu and Kashmir administration to enable construction of a larger and permanent airport facility. Singh indicated that the land transfer process has already begun with approval from the Union Territory government.
He informed that, as an immediate step, authorities have agreed to begin operations of smaller aircraft. The Air Force has consented to provide a 100 by 100 square metre space within its premises for this purpose. A temporary structure will be built to support initial services, and the tendering process for this facility has already been initiated. Singh expressed confidence that these services would be operational within the expected timeline.
The Udhampur airport project has been under discussion for several years, primarily due to the region's strategic location and growing need for improved air connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. Once completed, the airport is expected to reduce travel time and improve accessibility for both residents and tourists.
Apart from aviation, the minister highlighted efforts to promote local economic activities. He referred to millet-based innovations encouraged under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting that global food chains have started adopting such products developed by food technology institutions in India.
Drawing attention to regional produce, Singh said work is ongoing to promote Kaladi, a traditional dairy product from Udhampur, under the One District One Product initiative. Scientists have already extended its shelf life from one to two days to around eight to ten days, and further work is being carried out to develop new recipes without affecting its taste or nutritional value. He indicated that this process is also expected to be completed within the coming months, after which efforts will be made to introduce the product to larger food chains.
On infrastructure, he noted that work on the express corridor is progressing, although the Katra stretch may take additional time. Sections up to Vijaypur and beyond are expected to become functional sooner. He also reviewed the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway and observed that the project is gaining pace, which is expected to improve regional connectivity, boost tourism, and support economic growth.
In the healthcare sector, Singh stated that the Army Command Hospital in Udhampur has agreed to extend super-speciality medical services to civilians. He advised local authorities to increase awareness about these services and identify patients who may benefit from specialised treatment. He also suggested organising quarterly health camps to improve access.
The minister further reviewed the status of the International Yoga Centre at Mantalai and indicated that it could be made operational through a Public-Private Partnership model. He noted that this approach would help ensure better management, efficient use of infrastructure, and support the growth of wellness tourism in the region.
Source PTI
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