For Republic Day 2022, the Ministry of Civil Aviation showcased the growth of the Indian aviation industry as the tableau. The key focus was India’s regional connectivity scheme UDAN and the rich dividends it has been earning for the country.
The aviation industry's tableau was in the shape of an aircraft with women pilots in front, depicting the women power in the country’s aviation industry. India ranks first in the number of women commercial pilots worldwide. The rear portion of the tableau included a symbol of Buddhism and presented the vision of UDAN, ‘Sab Uden, Sab Juden.’ The middle part had a Buddha Statue at Gaya, where Buddha attained salvation, among other places at DhamekhStupa, Sarnath, Mahaparinirvana Stupa and Kushinagar where he earned Mahaparinirvana.
Usha Padhee, Joint Secretary of Ministry of Civil Aviation, said to ANI, “For the first time, Civil Aviation is presenting the tableau at the Republic Day parade. The tableau shows the importance of air connectivity through the regional connectivity scheme, mainly UDAN-- Ude Desh ka aam nagarik, where the affordability and air connectivity have been shown.”
“We are focusing on Buddhist circuit and Dekho Apna Desh, where we are displaying heritage and world heritage monuments in the country which are connected through airports where people can go and see wonderful monuments,” Joint Secretary added.
UDAN connects people and adds to their aspirations, says aviation Joint Secretary
According to Padhee, the main aim is to connect with the people and their aspirations. UDAN enabled people to meet each other, provided new opportunities, and increased trade and tourism. Overall, UDAN is improving the quality of life. “Under UDAN, we provide air connectivity, and the air connectivity improves through the improvement of the infrastructure. This represents both infrastructure and connectivity,” she added.
Launched in 2016, UDAN’s mission is to enhance aviation infrastructure and air connectivity in tier II and III cities fulfilling the aspirations of the common man.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation conceptualized the idea for Republic Day 2022 tableau, and the Airports Authority of India implemented it. The first UDAN flight was flagged-off in 2017 at Shimla by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
