Bhubaneswar: In a major push to strengthen Odisha’s aviation ecosystem, the Odisha Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday approved the Building & Management of Aviation Assets and Network (B-MAAN) scheme — an umbrella initiative of the Commerce and Transport Department with a total outlay of ₹4,182 crore for five years (2025–2030).
Envisioned under the inclusive motto “Aviation for All (Samastanka Pain Biman Seba)”, the B-MAAN scheme seeks to bring all aspects of aviation development, management, and innovation under a single, integrated framework, with the goal of positioning Odisha as a leading aviation hub in eastern India.
The scheme will cover multiple components aimed at holistic sectoral growth:
Infrastructure Development & Modernisation: Upgradation, development, and maintenance of airports and heliports across the state, including Greenfield and Brownfield projects to improve regional accessibility.
Air Connectivity & VGF Support: Incentives and Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to enhance connectivity between tier-II and tier-III towns and major cities under UDAN and other regional schemes.
MRO Ecosystem: Establishment of world-class Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities at Biju Patnaik International Airport and other strategic locations to build a self-reliant maintenance infrastructure and attract private investment.
Emerging Technologies & Innovation: Promotion of futuristic aviation technologies, including drones, seaplanes, e-VTOL aircraft, and aerospace manufacturing, aligning Odisha with global trends in sustainable mobility.
Cargo & Logistics Development: Strengthening of air cargo and logistics infrastructure to boost agricultural exports, industrial movement, and time-sensitive trade, linking Odisha more deeply to national and global value chains.
Capacity Building & Skill Development: Creation of employment opportunities through aviation-focused skilling, flight training, and specialised courses for pilots (especially girls), technicians, and ground-handling staff in partnership with industry leaders.
Institutional Strengthening: Restructuring and empowerment of the Directorate of Aviation to function as a dedicated professional agency for policy, planning, and implementation.
According to officials, B-MAAN represents a landmark step in Odisha’s aviation journey, driving connectivity, innovation, employment, and investment, while contributing to the broader vision of ‘Viksit Odisha 2036’ through sustainable and inclusive growth of the aviation sector.
