PM Modi Targets ‘One Family’ Naming Culture, Inaugurates ₹5,600 Crore Bhogapuram International Airport in Andhra Pradesh
Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday took an indirect swipe at the Gandhi family while inaugurating the newly built Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport at Bhogapuram in Andhra Pradesh, saying that there was a time when airports across the country were often named after members of a single political family.
Addressing a public gathering during the inauguration ceremony, Modi said his government has adopted a different approach by honouring national icons from diverse regions and communities. He cited examples such as Maharishi Valmiki and Sant Ravidas, after whom airports in Ayodhya and Punjab have been named, respectively.
The Prime Minister announced that the Bhogapuram airport has been named after freedom fighter Alluri Sitarama Raju, who played a significant role in India’s struggle against British rule and remains a revered figure in Andhra Pradesh.
PM Modi Highlights Aviation Growth
During his speech, Modi highlighted the rapid growth of India’s aviation sector over the last decade. He said the number of operational airports in the country has increased from 74 before 2014 to 166, significantly improving connectivity across regions.
According to the Prime Minister, the expansion has helped bring aviation services closer to ordinary citizens and boosted economic activity in previously underserved areas.
He also praised the government’s flagship UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme, which aims to make air travel affordable and accessible to the common man.
“Air travel is no longer limited to a select few. Families from smaller towns and modest backgrounds are now able to fly because of improved connectivity and affordable services,” Modi said.
The Prime Minister noted that the second phase of the UDAN programme has been launched with an investment of ₹29,000 crore to further strengthen regional connectivity.
Bhogapuram Airport to Boost Andhra Pradesh
The newly inaugurated Alluri Sitarama Raju International Airport has been developed under the public-private partnership (PPP) model at a cost exceeding ₹5,600 crore.
Designed to handle nearly six million passengers annually, the airport is expected to emerge as a major aviation hub for Andhra Pradesh and neighbouring regions.
The modern terminal features advanced technologies, including biometric passenger processing systems, automated baggage handling facilities and integrated airport management systems aimed at improving operational efficiency and passenger convenience.
Focus on Sustainability and Modern Infrastructure
Officials said the airport has been built with a strong focus on sustainability. Key features include a 5 MW solar power plant, rainwater harvesting systems, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and energy-efficient building technologies.
The architectural design reflects the cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh, combining traditional aesthetics with modern infrastructure standards.
Development Projects Worth ₹17,900 Crore
Apart from inaugurating the Bhogapuram airport, the Prime Minister is also dedicating and launching multiple development projects worth more than ₹17,900 crore during his visit.
The projects span infrastructure, connectivity and public welfare sectors, aimed at accelerating economic growth and improving quality of life across the region.
Following his Andhra Pradesh visit, Modi is scheduled to travel to Mysuru in Karnataka, where he will inaugurate the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Youth Centre and address a public gathering.
Expected Impact on Tourism and Investment
Industry experts believe the Bhogapuram airport will play a crucial role in boosting tourism, trade and investment opportunities in Andhra Pradesh. Improved air connectivity is expected to attract businesses, facilitate faster movement of people and goods, and strengthen the state’s position as an emerging economic destination.
The airport is also seen as a key component of the Centre’s broader vision to expand aviation infrastructure and improve regional connectivity across India.
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