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UDAN has also adapted to the unprecedented situation created by the COVID-19 scenario by
quickly introducing certain flexibilities to help airline operators along with certain economizing
measures to rationalize the VGF outflow. Airline operators under the Scheme are cooperating with
MoCA to operate flights in the new normal and maintain the sustainability of UDAN.

Flexible/replicable mechanism facilitating quick adaptation:
Given the universally applicable features of the Scheme, RCS-UDAN has even been able to adapt
itself in an unprecedented situation like COVID-19. Lifeline UDAN was conceptualized to aid
India in its fight against the pandemic, following the nationwide lockdown. Steps were taken in
advance to facilitate the speedy and seamless transportation and delivery of essential and time-
sensitive cargo along with medical supplies and teams to various parts of country. This included
creation of a hub and spoke model to aid in network planning, continuous engagement and
collaboration with stakeholders from aviation and health, a designated and well-balanced response
team and integration of technologically adept solutions such as establishment of the Lifeline
UDAN Portal, WhatsApp groups and video conferencing.

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