India's Aviation Map Expands with Kota and Puri Airports

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has granted in-principle approval for the development of greenfield airports in Kota, Rajasthan, and Puri, Odisha, as announced by Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu on 05 May 2025. The move aligns with the government's broader vision of strengthening India’s aviation infrastructure under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The approval for Kota’s greenfield airport fulfills a long-standing regional demand, championed by Shri Om Birla, Speaker of the Lok Sabha and MP from Kota-Bundi. Known for its educational institutions and industrial base, Kota is the hub of the Hadoti region and is experiencing growing economic momentum. The new airport is expected to enhance connectivity and stimulate further development.

In Odisha, the proposed airport in Puri—an important religious and tourist destination known for the Lord Jagannath Temple—aims to bolster religious tourism and improve access to the coastal city. The Ministry highlighted that the project would play a key role in delivering last-mile air connectivity and fostering regional growth.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.