Nagpur: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said the Nagpur Airport expansion would strengthen Central India’s economy by improving connectivity, attracting investment, generating employment and accelerating industrial growth across the Vidarbha region.
Gadkari made the remarks during the formal handover of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, Nagpur, to GMR Group under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and other dignitaries attended the event.
The Union Minister said Nagpur’s strategic location at the geographical centre of the country has helped it emerge as a major hub for trade, logistics, manufacturing, commerce and multimodal transport. Therefore, he said the airport’s modernisation will further strengthen the city’s economic importance.
He added that the upgraded airport will support tourism, mining, agriculture and export-oriented industries by improving passenger and cargo connectivity. Consequently, the project is expected to create new business opportunities across the region.
Nagpur Airport expansion to strengthen global connectivity
Gadkari urged the Ministry of Civil Aviation to introduce direct international flights from Nagpur to destinations such as Singapore and Dubai. He said these services would boost trade, tourism, business exchanges and investment while integrating Nagpur more closely with global markets.
He also suggested promoting local products, including Nagpur’s famous Orange Barfi, at the airport to support regional entrepreneurs and showcase Vidarbha’s cultural identity.
During the ceremony, Gadkari, Rammohan Naidu and Devendra Fadnavis unveiled the airport’s new logo, marking a new phase in its development.
The Union Minister welcomed plans to establish modern cargo facilities, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) infrastructure and improved passenger amenities. Moreover, he said these projects would help develop an airport-led economic ecosystem and strengthen Nagpur’s position as a logistics and industrial hub.
Gadkari thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu for supporting infrastructure development across the country. He said the PPP-based airport expansion will increase passenger and cargo handling capacity through phased development while improving regional connectivity and creating employment opportunities.
