The Central Government has released ₹109 crore for the development of three airports in Tamil Nadu—Vellore, Neyveli and Salem—as part of the regional connectivity scheme, UDAN. The funding aims to strengthen air connectivity in underserved regions and accelerate infrastructure upgrades.
According to the allocation, Vellore Airport will receive ₹59 crore, Neyveli Airport has been allotted ₹26 crore, and Salem Airport will get ₹24 crore. While Salem Airport is already operational under the UDAN network, development work at Vellore and Neyveli is largely complete, and both airports are currently progressing through the final stages of licensing.
The investment forms part of the government’s larger strategy to enhance last-mile connectivity across India by operationalising more regional airports and making air travel accessible to smaller cities. Officials noted that once licensing formalities conclude, commercial services are expected to commence from Vellore and Neyveli, further boosting economic activity and easing travel within Tamil Nadu.
The UDAN scheme continues to expand its footprint nationwide, with the Centre’s broader plan to develop additional destinations over the coming years to meet rising regional travel demand.
