Gadkari's remarks on 'Developed India': Infinite opportunities in aviation sector, big benefit for Nagpur

Nagpur, October 4, 2025: In the backdrop of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visionary vision of 'Developed India' (Vikasit Bharat), Union Minister for Land Transport and Civil Aviation Nitin Gadkari today addressed an event organized in Nagpur. His remarks highlighted the immense opportunities in the aviation sector that complement the goal of 'Developed India', and Nagpur city in particular, he said. Gadkari's speech has created enthusiasm among local entrepreneurs, students and citizens, symbolizing a new phase of India's economic development.
The event was part of a major lecture series in Nagpur, in which experts from various fields participated in the 'Developed India 2047' campaign. Gadkari, in his introduction, praised the policies of the government led by Prime Minister Modi and said, "Developed India is not just a concept, but a reality in the lives of every Indian. For this, we are revolutionizing the aviation sector, which will increase connectivity from rural areas to urban centers and accelerate economic growth."
Opportunities in the aviation sector: The pillar of 'Developed India'
Gadkari considered the aviation sector as the main pillar of the success of 'Developed India'. He said, "Currently, there are more than 140 airports in India, but by 2025, we want to take this number to 220. This will create new jobs and give a boost to tourism and trade. This area will be of particular benefit to a central city like Nagpur, as it will become a node on east-west and north-south routes." He cited as an example the expansion project of Nagpur International Airport, which will connect rural areas under the 'UDAN' (Uddesya Deshthan Chaan) scheme.
The minister said, "There are huge opportunities in the aviation sector that complement the Prime Minister's vision. From drone technology to green aircraft, we are prioritizing every aspect. This will reduce carbon emissions and achieve sustainable development." Gadkari also noted that investment in the aviation sector can increase the country's GDP by up to 5 percent, which will provide jobs to lakhs of youth.
Nagpur's development: Gateway to Central India
Gadkari stressed on giving Nagpur a special place on the map of 'developed India'. "Nagpur is the hub of routes from Mizoram to Gujarat and from Bihar to Tamil Nadu. With the metro, Samruddhi Highway and now the airport expansion here, the city will be known as the 'Gateway to Central India'," he said. He appealed to local industrialists to "invest in sectors like aircraft parts manufacturing, MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) centres. The government will allow 100 percent FDI."
The president of Nagpur's Entrepreneurs' Association, who participated in the program, said, "Gadkari's example has given us a new direction. Opportunities in the aviation sector will make our city economically viable." Also, answering a question asked by a student, Gadkari inspired the youth, saying, "Developed India is in your hands. Get an education in fields like engineering, aerospace and participate in the development of the country."
The broader picture of 'Developed India': Education, health and environment
Gadkari highlighted that the scope of the concept of 'Developed India' is not only economic but also social and environmental. "Real development is possible only by prioritizing the education and health sectors. We will provide hospitals and schools in every village by 2047. Also, we will reduce pollution by focusing on electric vehicles and green energy," he said. Stating that the government led by the Prime Minister has laid the foundation for development in the last decade through schemes like vaccination, Jan Dhan Yojana and Digital India worth more than Rs 100 crore, he said, "Now is the time to make this dream of 'Developed India' a reality."
He also spoke about India's global role. "A developed India is not just about GDP growth, but also about being a centre of global peace and cooperation. India's strong presence at forums like the G20 is a symbol of this." Gadkari finally appealed to the audience, "Everyone should contribute in their own field. This resolve should be in everyone's blood."