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Delhi Declaration on Civil Aviation

Last updated on September 13th, 2024 Posted on September 13, 2024 by NEXT IAS Current Affairs Team  179

Syllabus: GS3/ Economy

In News

  • The Prime Minister has announced the adoption of the Delhi Declaration on Civil Aviation. 

About

  • The Declaration was adopted unanimously after the 2nd Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference in New Delhi.
  • The Declaration is a comprehensive framework aimed at enhancing regional cooperation, addressing emerging challenges and fostering sustainable growth in the civil aviation sector in the Asia-Pacific region. 
  • The Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference also celebrates 80 years of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Key Announcements

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India’s advancements in aviation, highlighting that 15% of Indian pilots are women, well above the global average.
  • Proposal for an International Buddhist Circuit to enhance regional tourism and connectivity.
  • India aims to establish 350-400 airports by 2047, expanding its global aviation footprint.
  • The establishment of a Pacific Small Island Developing States Liaison Office to assist smaller nations in managing aviation challenges.
  • Initiatives like the ‘Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam’ campaign to plant 80,000 saplings in commemoration of ICAO’s 80 years. Focus on green aviation and sustainability in future plans.

Significance of the Delhi Declaration

  • It represents a major step toward strengthening regional cooperation in civil aviation in the Asia-Pacific, a region experiencing rapid aviation growth.
  • The framework addresses sustainability, green aviation, and safety—critical challenges in the aviation industry today.
  • Initiatives like the International Buddhist Circuit align with broader regional goals of improving connectivity and boosting tourism and economic prosperity across Asia.
  • India is positioning itself as a leader in global aviation, with its ambitious targets of building 350-400 airports by 2047, making it a key player in aviation infrastructure development.

Civil Aviation Sector in India

  • India is the third-largest domestic aviation market globally, and it is expected to become the third-largest overall by 2025.
  • India’s civil aviation sector is expanding through key government initiatives like the UDAN Scheme, Pradhan Mantri Gati Shakti Plan, and NCAP 2016. 
  • With 136 operational airports and plans for 100 more, the government focuses on modernizing infrastructure, enhancing regional connectivity, and encouraging PPP models for airport development.
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
– Established: 1947, by the Chicago Convention (1944).
– Headquarters: Montreal, Canada.
Functions:
1. Ensures safe and efficient international air transport.
2. Sets standards for aviation safety, security, and environmental performance.
3. Promotes regional and international agreements to liberalize aviation markets.
4. Facilitates cooperation and discussions among its 193 member states.
5. Develops legal frameworks for aviation law and standards.

Source: AIR

 
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