Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann urges more international flights from Mohali Airport to boost trade, tourism, investment & create jobs for the youth.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann made a strong case on Friday for the opening of additional international flights from Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, arguing that global connectivity, not symbolism, is what drives economic growth. He claimed that increased international operations would greatly increase regional economic activity, tourism, and investment.
Chandigarh International Airport Limited (CHIAL) presented the Punjab government with an interim dividend of ₹19 crore, which the Punjab chief minister highlighted as proof of the airport’s consistent expansion and a strong Center-Punjab relationship. Stronger international aviation connections from Mohali, he claimed, would facilitate access for traders and entrepreneurs, create jobs for the youth of the state, and establish Punjab as a competitive travel and business destination.
Speaking with representatives of Chandigarh International Airport Limited (CHIAL), who gave him a ₹19 crore interim dividend check, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the steady expansion of Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport is a testament to the solid cooperation between the Punjab and Central governments. In order to link the dynamic state with foreign locations, the Punjab administration is dedicated to growing its international operations from Mohali. It will support the development of new employment possibilities for the state’s young, boosting Punjab’s economy,” he continued.
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“It will facilitate the easy movement of entrepreneurs, traders, and industrialists from the region and from around the world to the state, thereby boosting trade, commerce, and economic activity in the region,” the Chief Minister stated. More flights from this airport will benefit the local population in addition to attracting top businesspeople from across the world who will invest heavily in the state. In addition to promoting Punjab as the top investment destination, I hope it will serve as a spur to advance industrialization in the state,” he declared.
In the meantime, the CHIAL Management conveyed their profound appreciation to the Punjab Government and the Chief Minister for their constant direction, assistance, and collaboration, which have fueled the airport’s growth and operational excellence. With this dividend distribution, CHIAL’s strong financial standing and the productive cooperation of its stakeholders are highlighted, opening the door for further growth, including the inclusion of further foreign routes. The CHIAL Board announced the dividend for the fiscal year 2025–2026 on December 12, 2025.