The Union Cabinet has approved the implementation of IVFRT 3.0 as part of a major initiative to strengthen India’s security infrastructure. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that three key decisions were taken during Wednesday’s cabinet meeting, including the revised UDAN scheme, IVFRT 3.0, and India’s new climate action plan.
The government has earmarked a total investment of ₹30,640 crore, which is expected to significantly impact public travel, national security, and environmental sustainability. The initiatives aim to expand air connectivity to smaller cities, modernize immigration systems, and reinforce India’s global climate commitments.
IVFRT 3.0 to Make Immigration System Smarter and More Secure
IVFRT 3.0 has been approved for a five-year period with an estimated cost of ₹1,800 crore. The program aims to transform India’s immigration system into a fully digital and secure ecosystem.
Advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning will be integrated into immigration processes. Features including iris scanning and facial recognition will be introduced, along with self-service kiosks at airports.
Data centres will be upgraded, and all immigration checkpoints will be connected through an integrated digital platform. These improvements are expected to speed up passenger processing while strengthening national security.
Major Changes in UDAN Scheme to Expand Air Connectivity
The government has decided to aggressively expand the UDAN regional connectivity scheme. Under the plan, 100 new airports will be developed, each costing approximately ₹100 crore.
Additionally, 200 new helipads will be constructed, particularly benefiting remote and mountainous regions. Airlines will receive viability gap funding, with government support ranging between 80% and 90%, which will gradually decrease over the next five years.
Financial assistance will also be provided for airport operations and maintenance, with operators eligible to receive up to ₹3 crore annually.
India Strengthens Commitment to Climate Goals
The Cabinet has also approved a new Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) plan for the period 2031–2035 to combat climate change.
India has set a target to reduce emissions intensity of GDP by 47% by 2035. The country also aims to generate 60% of electricity from non-fossil fuel sources.
Plans include expanding carbon sinks capable of storing 3.5 to 4 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent. The strategy focuses on climate-resilient development, stronger infrastructure, and promoting sustainable lifestyles.
