Gwalior: On a momentous occasion, Minister of Civil Aviation and Steel, Shri Jyotiraditya M Scindia, in collaboration with Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Mohan Yadav, flagged off the inaugural flights on three pivotal routes from Gwalior, signaling a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to enhance air connectivity.
Expressing his excitement, Minister Scindia highlighted the new beginning for Gwalior and the nation at large. He attributed the vision to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, aiming to showcase and amplify India’s economic and spiritual strengths through world-class connectivity. Gwalior, now connected to six cities including Delhi, Hyderabad, Indore, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Ayodhya, experiences 33 weekly flight movements, with Air India Express playing a vital role in connecting Gwalior to Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Delhi.
Minister Scindia further announced plans to make history by constructing a new terminal building in Gwalior, estimated at Rs 500 crore, within a record time of 16 months. This modern facility, spanning 2 lakh square feet, seamlessly blends modernity with antiquity, portraying the rich history, culture, civilization, and local ethos of Gwalior. Anticipated to be completed in the coming days, the terminal aims to meet the futuristic demands of the region, contributing to enhanced connectivity and economic growth.
“Reflecting on the aviation sector’s development in Madhya Pradesh, Minister Scindia pointed out the significant progress since 2014. The state, which initially had air connectivity with only 13 cities, now boasts connections to 31 cities, including two international destinations—Dubai and Sharjah”.
Aircraft movements per week have surged from 540 to over 1000. The government is actively investing in infrastructure, with projects like a new terminal at Jabalpur, developments at Rewa airport, construction of a new airport in Datia, and an airfield underway in Satna. Madhya Pradesh now hosts six Flying Training Organisations, including Asia’s first Helicopter Training Institute in Khajuraho.
In his remarks, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Dr. V.K. Singh(Retd.), emphasized the government’s commitment to making air travel more accessible and convenient for citizens.
The event witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, including Minister of Energy of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Pradhuman Singh Tomar, Minister of Social Justice & Welfare of disabled people, Horticulture & Food Processing Shri Narayan Singh Kushwah, Member of Parliament, Gwalior, Shri Vivek Narayan Shejwalkar, and other key officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Airports Authority of India, and the Government of Madhya Pradesh.
