Budget 2025-26 Maritime and Aviation Measures Explained
Why in the news
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled Budget 2025-26 steps to boost shipbuilding, regional air links and Bihar’s infrastructure.
Key facts
- Maritime Development Fund: government share up to 49%; ports and private players fund the rest.
- Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy revamped to offset cost disadvantages.
- Credit notes for shipbreaking in Indian yards support a circular economy.
- Large ships join the Harmonised Master List (HML) of infrastructure.
- Shipbuilding clusters get infrastructure, skilling and technology support.
- Customs relief on raw materials, components and consumables; similar for ship breaking.
Aviation and Bihar
| Area | Announcement |
|---|---|
| UDAN | Covers helipads and smaller airports in hilly, aspirational and North-East districts |
| Air cargo | Perishable horticulture infrastructure; faster scanning and customs protocols |
| Bihar | Greenfield airports, Patna upgrade, brownfield airport at Bihta |
| Bihar farmland | Western Koshi Canal ERM Project; 50,000 hectares in Mithilanchal |
Exam angle
- Regional flying scheme: UDAN.
- Fund size: ₹25,000 crore.
- Duty exemption period: 10 years.