Imphal, Jan 27: The Government of Manipur has extended its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Alliance Air Aviation Limited under the Viable Gap Funding (VGF) Scheme, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening regional air connectivity and improving transportation links for the people of the state.
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| Image Courtesy: x.com/govt_of_manipur |
The renewed agreement will ensure the continued operation of regular Alliance Air flights connecting Imphal with the key cities of Dimapur, Guwahati, and Kolkata. These routes are expected to enhance connectivity between Manipur and major regional as well as national aviation hubs, making air travel more accessible, reliable, and convenient for passengers.
Officials said the extension of the partnership reflects the government's continued focus on improving transportation infrastructure and addressing the connectivity challenges faced by Manipur due to its geographical location. By maintaining these air services, the state aims to provide residents with dependable travel options while supporting the broader objectives of regional integration and economic development.
The Viable Gap Funding (VGF) Scheme enables the government to support the operation of commercially less viable but socially and strategically important air routes. Through financial assistance under the scheme, essential flight services can continue operating, ensuring that remote and underserved regions remain connected to the country's aviation network.
According to officials, the continuation of the Imphal-Dimapur, Imphal-Guwahati, and Imphal-Kolkata routes will provide significant benefits to a wide range of passengers, including students, patients, business travellers, tourists, and government officials. Improved air connectivity is also expected to facilitate easier access to educational institutions, specialised healthcare facilities, commercial centres, and administrative services located outside the state.
The government further noted that enhanced air links would contribute to increased tourism, investment, trade, and business opportunities while strengthening Manipur's role as an important gateway to the North Eastern region. Better connectivity is also expected to support local entrepreneurs, exporters, and small businesses by improving access to larger domestic markets.
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Officials emphasised that reliable air services are particularly important for Manipur, given the state's strategic location and the challenges associated with surface transportation during adverse weather conditions and other disruptions. Strengthening aviation infrastructure, they said, remains a key component of the state's long-term development strategy.
The Government of Manipur reiterated its commitment to working closely with airline operators and the Ministry of Civil Aviation to further improve regional connectivity and expand air travel opportunities for residents. It expressed confidence that the continued collaboration with Alliance Air would play an important role in promoting inclusive development, economic growth, and greater integration of Manipur with the rest of the country.
The extension of the MoU is expected to provide greater convenience and travel flexibility for passengers while reinforcing the state's efforts to build a more efficient and resilient transportation network.
