In a move that brings long-awaited relief and excitement to the people of Kota in Rajasthan and Puri in Odisha, Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu has given in-principle approval for the establishment of Greenfield airports in both cities. This decision, made on May 5, 2025, is a significant step forward in the government’s efforts to enhance regional air connectivity under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
For Kota, this development is especially emotional and significant. Known as a hub of education and industry, Kota has long aspired for an airport to better connect it with the rest of India and the world. The approval comes after persistent efforts by Lok Sabha Speaker and Kota-Bundi MP Om Birla, who has tirelessly advocated for this project. The announcement is being welcomed as a long-overdue recognition of the city’s growing importance and needs.
The new airport in Kota is expected to serve not just the city itself, but the entire Hadoti region, helping to boost economic activity, create jobs, and open up new avenues for trade, education, and tourism. For the thousands of students, entrepreneurs, and professionals in the region, this development feels like a dream come true.
In Puri, the news has been met with equal enthusiasm and emotion. A city deeply rooted in spirituality and culture, Puri draws millions of devotees every year to the sacred Jagannath Temple. The approval of an airport here is seen as a blessing for countless pilgrims who have long faced travel hardships to reach the holy city. It is also expected to significantly boost tourism, create economic opportunities, and enhance the region’s visibility on the global map.
The airports in Kota and Puri reflect the government’s continued dedication to improving last-mile air connectivity, ensuring that even historically underserved regions are not left behind in the journey of progress. More than just infrastructure projects, these airports symbolize hope, development, and a more connected future for all.
