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In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to expand national connectivity, Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu announced plans to introduce seaplanes to reach remote areas across India, including the North East.
During an aviation conference at Meghalaya’s Umiam Lake, Naidu took a test ride on a seaplane alongside Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma. Inspired by the Maldives' successful use of seaplanes, Naidu encouraged local manufacturers, such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Mahindra Aerospace, to collaborate with foreign firms in developing these aircraft domestically. The initiative also aims to support regional tourism, with plans to link scenic sites like Umiam Lake to major cities under the Regional Connectivity Scheme (UDAN). Sangma highlighted Shillong's tourism growth, announcing a 7-star hotel project by Umiam Lake to attract visitors.