Ministry of Earth Sciences Hosts National Media Interaction on 'Mission Mausam' The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) held a national-level media interaction on the ambitious Mission Mausam at Prithvi Bhavan, New Delhi. The session was led by Dr. M Ravichandran, Secretary of MoES, alongside Dr. Mritunjay Mohapatra, Director General of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), and Dr. V.S. Prasad, Head of the National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF). Approved by the Union Cabinet on September 11, 2024, with a budget of ₹2,000 crores over two years, Mission Mausam aims to transform India into a "Weather-Ready" and "Climate-Smart" nation. The mission focuses on advancing the country's weather and climate observation, modeling, and forecasting capabilities, to provide more accurate and timely services. Key Objectives of Mission Mausam: Develop Cutting-Edge Technologies: Introduce next-generation radars, satellites with advanced instr...
Shri Rammohun Naidu Unveils UDAN 5.4 and Pioneering Seaplane Guidelines
In a significant boost to India's aviation sector, Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, has announced the launch of the 5.4 version of the UDAN scheme and introduced groundbreaking guidelines for seaplane operations. The event, held at the Indian Aviation Academy in New Delhi, marks a pivotal step in integrating seaplanes into India's aviation landscape.
Shri Naidu highlighted the unique opportunity presented by India’s vast network of rivers, lakes, and a 7,517 km coastline for developing a robust seaplane industry. "Our extensive water resources offer a rare chance to innovate and expand our transportation network," he said. The new guidelines aim to seamlessly incorporate seaplanes into existing aviation frameworks, creating jobs, driving economic growth, and reflecting the nation's commitment to inclusive development.
The UDAN 5.4 version will open fresh bidding opportunities for previously canceled routes, enhancing connectivity to underserved areas. Additionally, demonstration flights for seaplanes by DeHavilland are set to begin soon, showcasing the practical potential of this new mode of transport.
Addressing the audience, Shri Naidu emphasized the government’s pragmatic approach, drawing on successful helicopter operations under the UDAN scheme. The new guidelines will allow seaplane operations under a Non-Scheduled Operator Permit (NSOP), ensuring flexibility and fostering growth. The extension of Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to seaplanes will provide crucial support to operators, while maintaining a focus on safety and security.
Despite initial hurdles, particularly in developing water aerodromes, the government’s flexible approach aims to overcome these challenges and promote seaplane operations. The comprehensive Seaplane NSOP Guidelines are designed to ensure safe, secure, and efficient operations, reflecting the government's dedication to enhancing regional connectivity.
Shri Naidu also stressed the importance of a favorable policy environment for the seaplane industry, advocating for research into technologies such as electric seaplanes to reduce carbon emissions and align with India's climate commitments. The goal is to foster innovation, support growth, and create employment opportunities across the seaplane sector, including for pilots, maintenance staff, and ground crews. Plans are also underway to develop Multimodal Transport Hubs for seamless connectivity between seaplanes and other transport modes.
Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Ministry of Cooperation, Shri Murlidhar Mohol, highlighted that this initiative will enhance connectivity, stimulate tourism, and boost economic growth, bringing even the most remote areas of India closer together. The newly launched guidelines represent a thoughtful framework for ensuring safe and efficient seaplane operations, marking a new chapter in India's aviation industry.
Civil Aviation Secretary, Shri Vumlunmang Vualnam, emphasized the proactive approach taken by the Ministry. The adoption of the NSOP framework for seaplanes, building on its success with helicopters and small aircraft under the UDAN scheme, provides a structured and secure foundation for future growth, even as water aerodrome infrastructure is developed.
The event was attended by key figures including Director General of DGCA, Shri Vikram Dev Dutt, senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, state and union territory go
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