India is on a mission to transform itself into a developed nation by 2047, and a key component of this transformation is the ambitious expansion of its airport infrastructure. Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu revealed this bold vision during the World Tourism Day celebration held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. He declared plans to increase the number of airports across India to a staggering 350, emphasizing the crucial role of aviation in driving economic growth and improving tourist access to the country’s diverse regions.
Currently, India boasts 157 airports, a number that has already seen significant growth since 2014 when there were only 74. The planned expansion goes far beyond simply accommodating the rising number of travelers; it aims to bridge the gap between India’s vibrant cities and its remote, less explored regions. This strategic expansion is seen as a catalyst for promoting regional tourism and distributing tourist traffic more evenly throughout the country.
The impact of previous expansions is evident in the booming travel numbers. In 2014, India welcomed 4.6 crore travelers. Today, with the expanded airport network, nearly 7 crore people land in India annually. More than 35 percent of these arrivals are tourists seeking leisure and adventure, demonstrating India’s rising prominence as a global tourist destination.
Naidu highlighted the government’s focus on connecting more hinterland locations, those often proximate to undiscovered historical and natural sites. By developing infrastructure and enhancing connectivity, the government hopes to unlock the tourism potential of these areas, making India’s rich cultural and natural heritage more accessible to both domestic and international travelers.
This ambitious project aligns perfectly with the government’s Vision 2047, which marks a century of independence. It signifies a commitment to building a developed India where advanced infrastructure, including 350 airports, fuels economic growth and social progress. By the time India celebrates its 100th year of independence, the government envisions a nation where its citizens can seamlessly travel within the country and showcase its vibrant tapestry of cultures and landscapes to the world.
This bold initiative underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its global connectivity and positioning itself as a leading destination in the international tourism market by 2047. With a clear focus on expanding infrastructure, India is ready to welcome the world and showcase the beauty and diversity of its rich cultural heritage.
