New Delhi, Dec 19 (NationPress) A remarkable 93 airports in India have transitioned to utilizing 100% green energy, as announced by Murlidhar Mohol, the Minister of State for Civil Aviation, during a session in Parliament.

In response to a query in the Lok Sabha, the minister highlighted that four major airports, namely Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru, have attained the highest level of carbon accreditation, level five, as recognized by the Airports Council International, achieving carbon neutrality.

The government has set blending targets for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at 1% by 2027, 2% by 2028, and 5% by 2030 for traditional aviation fuel, initially for international flights.

The minister elaborated that a Greenfield Airport Policy has been established to facilitate the development of new airports throughout the nation.

According to this policy, any project proponent, whether a state government or private entity wishing to establish an airport, must submit a proposal to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA).

The MoCA evaluates the proposal in collaboration with various departments, organizations, and the relevant state government before granting necessary approvals, as stated by Mohol.

He also emphasized that the advancement and operation of airports, including greenfield projects, is a critical endeavor aimed at achieving Viksit Bharat through inclusive economic growth and enhanced regional connectivity.

This initiative aims to connect remote regions to both national and global markets, foster tourism and trade, improve logistics, and create job opportunities.

Prominent greenfield airports, like the Navi Mumbai International Airport, are anticipated to spur industrial and urban growth in surrounding areas by enhancing connectivity, establishing industrial corridors and logistics hubs, and attracting investments, he noted.

Furthermore, the government is advocating for an aircraft manufacturing ecosystem, encompassing regional transport aircraft and related equipment, under the 'Make in India' initiative.

Measures such as revising GST rates, eliminating royalties, amending the Visa Manual for foreign pilots and crew involved in MRO services, and extending timelines for the export of goods imported for repairs are all designed to bolster the aircraft manufacturing ecosystem, the minister added.