JAIPUR: Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ashok Gajpati Raju on Tuesday launched Delhi-Bikaner-Delhi flight under the central government's regional air connectivity scheme.
Raju and Minister of State in Ministry of Water Resources Arjun Ram Meghal, who is also the MP from Bikaner, and some of the other prominent personalities boarded the flight.
Hundreds of people gathered as for the first time, Alliance Air ATR-72 landed at Nal Airport in Bikaner. People clapped and danced to the drum beats.
Raju, by lighting a lamp, launched the flight from Bikaner to Delhi after which the aircraft took off around 4 p.m. from Bikaner to Delhi.
"The flight will operate daily," R.S. Meena, Airport Director, Bikaner told IANS.
Talking to media, Raju said "with the launch of the flight, Bikaner has been connected not only with Delhi but with rest of the world".
He said that central government is committed to increase and improve regional connectivity.
"This will give a boost to industries and tourism in Bikaner," he added.
Raju, in a tweet said: "Alliance Air UDAN flight to Bikaner takes wings today. With our youngest passenger, 27 days old who goes to Bikaner for his naming ceremony."
Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje tweeted: "The air travel options within the state will boost tourism and economy. These efforts are a step towards the New Rajasthan we envisioned."