Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 18 March 2025
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands unit of Hindu Rashtra Shakti has urged the Ministry of Civil Aviation to take steps to enhance air connectivity and medical evacuation services in the archipelago. In a letter addressed to Union Civil Aviation Minister Mr. Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu, the organization highlighted the pressing need for low-cost air travel options and a dedicated air ambulance service for the islanders.
The letter emphasized that the high cost of air travel continues to be a major challenge for residents, students, businesses, and tourists, restricting mobility and hampering economic growth. Additionally, the lack of dedicated air ambulance services has posed significant challenges in emergency medical evacuations, putting lives at risk.
The Hindu Rashtra Shakti Andaman and Nicobar unit proposed several measures to address these concerns, including:
1 Increasing Budget Airline Operations – Encouraging more low-cost airlines to operate flights between Sri Vijaya Puram and mainland India to make air travel more affordable.
2 Providing Airfare Subsidies – Introducing government-backed subsidies or incentives to reduce airfare costs for residents.
3 Establishing a Dedicated Air Ambulance Service – Setting up a 24/7 emergency air ambulance service with advanced medical facilities to ensure timely medical evacuations.
4 Strengthening Healthcare Coordination – Collaborating with the Ministry of Health and local authorities to improve medical evacuation processes and ensure swift hospital admissions at destination.
5 Upgrading Airport Infrastructure – Expanding and modernizing Veer Savarkar International Airport to accommodate more flights, improve passenger facilities, and enhance navigation systems.
6 Ensuring Reliable Cargo Transport – Enhancing the transportation of essential goods, medical supplies, and perishable items through cost-effective air cargo services.
7 Developing an Emergency Response System – Integrating air ambulance services into disaster management plans for better response during natural calamities.
8 Promoting Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) – Encouraging collaboration between government agencies and private enterprises to sustain affordable air travel and emergency services.
The letter was also forwarded to key government officials, including the Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Chief Secretary, the Member of Parliament, and the Secretaries of the Health and Tourism Ministries, urging their support for the initiative.
Hindu Rashtra Shakti believes these measures will significantly improve connectivity, healthcare accessibility, and tourism in the region, ultimately contributing to the holistic development of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.