Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, highlighted the significance of the modernization and expansion of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport in Nagpur. This development is expected to bolster Central India’s economy by improving connectivity, attracting investments, creating jobs, and fostering industrial growth in Vidarbha. The airport was formally handed over to GMR Group under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with the presence of Union Minister for Civil Aviation K. Rammohan Naidu and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Gadkari pointed out Nagpur’s strategic location at the heart of India, stating that the city is rapidly evolving into a major center for trade, logistics, manufacturing, commerce, and multimodal transportation. He emphasized that the airport’s expansion and modernization would further solidify Nagpur’s role as a key driver of economic progress in Central India. The upgraded international airport is expected to play a pivotal role in boosting tourism, mining, agriculture, and export-oriented industries in the Vidarbha region.
The Union Minister urged the Ministry of Civil Aviation to facilitate direct international flights from Nagpur to key global destinations like Singapore and Dubai. Such connectivity, according to Gadkari, would enhance trade, tourism, investments, and business interactions, while integrating Nagpur more closely with global markets. He also suggested promoting local products and culture by showcasing Nagpur’s famous orange barfi and other regional specialties at the airport, aiming to provide greater visibility to local entrepreneurs and strengthen Vidarbha’s cultural identity.
Gadkari, along with Naidu and Fadnavis, unveiled the new logo of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, symbolizing a new phase in the airport’s development journey. The long-term plans for the airport include the establishment of modern cargo facilities, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) infrastructure, and improved passenger amenities. These initiatives are set to transform Nagpur into an airport-centric economic ecosystem and reinforce its position as a logistics and industrial hub.
The Union Minister commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership and commitment to building top-notch infrastructure nationwide, contributing to transformative projects that enhance citizens’ quality of life. The transfer of Nagpur Airport under the PPP model is anticipated to usher in a new era of infrastructure development, with phased expansion plans aimed at significantly boosting passenger and cargo handling capacities, attracting investments, creating jobs, and enhancing regional connectivity across Central India.
