regional connectivity scheme

Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu announced that India's operational airports have more than doubled to 165 since 2014, with passenger footfall also increasing significantly. The government plans to develop over 100 more airports and 200 helipads in the next decade, supported by a record Rs 29,000 crore allocation for the UDAN 2.

Bihar is on the brink of a transformative upgrade in its aviation sector as agreements are finalized to enhance the runways at both Patna and Gaya airports. Meanwhile, Darbhanga is set to emerge as a key international gateway with land acquisition successfully completed.

In a significant move towards agricultural advancement, Bihar's Deputy CM unveiled the ASHA irrigation scheme with an investment of Rs12.34 crore in Patna district, embracing innovative technology and promoting effective water conservation for the farming community. Simultaneously, he kicked off a major Rs100 crore road development project in Arwal district, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and fostering local growth.

Vijayawada–Srisailam Route First for Seaplanes

Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has urged the Union government to expedite Patna airport's runway expansion, pledging state support. Aiming to boost air connectivity tenfold in five years, the government is developing a district-wise roadmap for airport modernization, enhanced security, and inclusive infrastructure.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the historic Sanchu Border Outpost, becoming the first minister to do so. He addressed BSF personnel, virtually inaugurated women's barracks, and reviewed drone technology. Shah also chaired a high-level meeting to bolster border security and launched 'Vibrant Village Programme-2' for 184 border villages, aiming to enhance infrastructure and economic self-reliance.

Government housing schemes in India are vital for first-time homebuyers facing high property prices and limited affordable options. Programs like PMAY-U 2.0 for urban areas and PMAY-G for rural regions, alongside state-level initiatives like MHADA and DDA, offer structured pathways to homeownership.

Uttarakhand faces a growing 'ghost village' crisis as over 1,700 villages become uninhabited. Livelihood scarcity, climate change, and fading traditions drive migration, leaving behind elderly residents and silent fields. Experts emphasize the need for imaginative solutions beyond infrastructure to revive rural life and make villages aspirational again.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday said that the national capital has secured a place in the highest 'Exemplar' category in the Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS) 2025 Index, marking a major jump from its earlier 'Achiever' status.

Odisha secured third place in the "Connecting Maximum Habitation" category under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) during its silver jubilee celebration. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi credited central government support and coordinated efforts for this achievement, emphasizing the state's commitment to inclusive rural development and progress.

AICTE has launched the ‘Samarthan: Internship Connect Scheme 2026-27’ for students from Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and the North Eastern States. The initiative will provide 30-day internships at premier institutions including IITs, IIMs and NITs. A total of 611 students will participate in the programme during the current academic session. The application portal is now open, and candidates can apply until May 25, 2026.