Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Kushinagar International Airport in Uttar Pradesh, which will provide connectivity to eight key Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that efforts will be directed towards building a network of over 200 airports, heliports and water domes in the nation in the next 3-4 years. The inauguration of the airport was marked by the landing of a flight from Colombo (Sri Lanka), carrying a Sri Lankan delegation of over a hundred Buddhist monks and dignitaries. The Prime Minister arrived in Uttar Pradesh for the inauguration of the airport and launching of key projects.
Among those present at the ceremony were Union minister of civil aviation Jyotiraditya Scindia, Uttar Pradesh governor Anandiben Patel, chief minister Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries. The representatives from all major countries practising Buddhism were present at the Kushinagar inauguration function, including those from Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia, Bhutan, Thailand and Nepal. The Kushinagar International airport has been built at an estimated cost of Rs 260 crore and will facilitate domestic and international pilgrims to visit the Mahaparinirvana sthal of Lord Buddha. The endeavour will connect the Buddhist pilgrimage holy sites around the world and also boost the investment and employment opportunities in the region. The Union Cabinet gave its approval for the declaration of Kushinagar airport in Uttar Pradesh as an International Airport in June 2020.