The Indian Parliament has recently passed the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak 2024. This legislation aims to enhance the aviation sector’s regulatory framework. It empowers the Central Government to establish rules for the design, manufacturing, maintenance, sale, export, and import of aircraft. The Bill also addresses the investigation of air accidents and incidents. The Minister for Civil Aviation, K Rammohan Naidu, brought into light the government’s commitment to transforming India into an aviation hub.
Key Objectives of the Bill
The Bill’s primary goal is to improve safety and operational standards in aviation. It seeks to regulate various aspects of aircraft operations. Additionally, it aims to boost job creation and economic activity within the sector. The Minister noted that one job in aviation can generate six to fifteen additional jobs in related areas.
Impact on Airfares
High airfares have been concern. The Minister indicated that a major portion of airfare is attributable to fuel prices. He urged Members of Parliament to advocate for reduced fuel taxes at the state level. This move could potentially lower airfares and make air travel more accessible.
Growth of the Aviation Sector
The aviation sector has witnessed substantial growth. The number of airports in India has increased from 74 in 2014 to 157 in 2024. Domestic air passenger numbers have also doubled over the past decade. This growth indicates a rising demand for air travel and marks the sector’s potential for further expansion.
Concerns Raised by MPs
Various Members of Parliament raised concerns during the discussions. Issues included the dynamic costs of air travel and the need for transparency in airport tendering processes. Some MPs pointed out the reliance on foreign countries for aviation technology and services. The need for better regulation of food and water prices at airports was also mentioned.
Future Directions
The government’s focus on designing, manufacturing, and maintaining aircraft is crucial. The aim is to reduce dependency on foreign nations for aviation needs. There is a clear intent to create a self-sustaining aviation ecosystem in India.
Conclusion
The Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak 2024 marks step towards modernising India’s aviation sector. With its focus on safety, job creation, and regulatory improvements, the Bill aims to position India as a leading player in global aviation.
Questions for UPSC:
- Examine the implications of the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak 2024 on India’s aviation sector.
- Critically discuss the factors influencing airfares in India and their impact on consumer behaviour.
- Analyse the growth of the aviation sector in India since 2014 and its significance for the economy.
- Point out the challenges faced by the Indian aviation sector in becoming self-reliant in technology and services.
Answer Hints:
1. Examine the implications of the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak 2024 on India’s aviation sector.
- Empowers the Central Government to regulate aircraft design, manufacturing, and operations.
- Enhances safety standards and procedures for investigating air accidents.
- Focuses on job creation, with one aviation job potentially generating up to 15 additional jobs.
- Aims to position India as a global aviation hub, boosting economic activity.
- Encourages local manufacturing to reduce dependence on foreign technology.
2. Critically discuss the factors influencing airfares in India and their impact on consumer behaviour.
- High fuel prices contribute to airfare costs, influenced by state taxes.
- Airlines adjust fares based on demand, particularly during holidays and peak seasons.
- Private companies have substantial control over pricing, leading to fluctuating airfares.
- Consumer behaviour is affected by fare sensitivity, with many opting for alternative travel methods.
- Government initiatives to reduce fuel taxes could lead to more affordable air travel.
3. Analyse the growth of the aviation sector in India since 2014 and its significance for the economy.
- Number of airports increased from 74 in 2014 to 157 in 2024, indicating infrastructure growth.
- Domestic air passenger numbers have doubled, reflecting increased demand for air travel.
- Aviation sector growth contributes to job creation and economic development.
- Investment in aviation infrastructure enhances connectivity and supports tourism and trade.
- Government initiatives aim to position India as a competitive player in the global aviation market.
4. Point out the challenges faced by the Indian aviation sector in becoming self-reliant in technology and services.
- Heavy reliance on foreign countries for advanced aviation technology and expertise.
- Lack of domestic manufacturing capabilities for aircraft and components.
- High costs of research and development hinder local innovation.
- Need for transparent and efficient tendering processes to attract investment.
- Regulatory hurdles and bureaucratic red tape can impede progress towards self-reliance.
