The delegation is looking for direct flights from Hubballi to Ahmedabad, Jodhpur and Varanasi

A delegation led by Mahendra Singhi, a member of the Prime Minister’s 15-point program for the welfare of minorities, met Union Minister Pralhad Joshi in Hubballi on Saturday. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

A delegation led by Mahendra Singhi, a member of the Prime Minister’s 15-point program for the welfare of minorities, urged Education, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Minister Pralhad Joshi to facilitate direct air services from Hubballi to Ahmedabad, Jodhpur and Varanasi.

The delegation met Mr. Joshi on Saturday and submitted a memorandum highlighting the need to enhance air connectivity from North Karnataka. The members also thanked Mr. Joshi for being given the additional responsibility of Education Minister.

The delegation said that thousands of people from North Karnataka have commercial, industrial, social, religious and family ties with Gujarat, Rajasthan and other parts of the country. In the absence of direct flights to Ahmedabad, Jodhpur and Varanasi, passengers have to travel via other cities, resulting in additional travel time and expenses.

The delegation said that Hubballi Airport is emerging as an important aviation hub for North Karnataka and direct connectivity to major cities like Ahmedabad, Jodhpur and Varanasi will benefit passengers and provide boost to trade, industry, tourism, religious travel and employment opportunities.

Mr. Singhi urged Mr. Joshi to take up the matter with the Civil Aviation Ministry and airline operators.

CBSE Textbook

The delegation also expressed concern over the delay in the availability of textbooks for students of various classes under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).

Mr. Joshi assured the delegation that he would take up the matters with the authorities concerned and initiate action.

Published – 29 Aug 2026 20:09 IST