The Hadapsar Gliding Centre, a significant training facility for aspiring pilots, is set to undergo development under a public-private partnership model. This announcement was made by Murlidhar Mohol, the Minister of State for Civil Aviation, who has firmly dispelled rumors regarding the center’s potential handover to a private entity. Previously managed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the 250-acre center was transferred to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on December 31, 2024. The transition aims to enhance the center’s capabilities while ensuring it remains accessible to the general public. Mohol’s assurances come amid rising concerns from citizens, particularly those who have utilized the center’s training programs. He emphasized that AAI is currently evaluating the development plans, focusing on the types of facilities that will be offered. Additionally, he announced plans for an upcoming inspection of the gliding center to further assess its needs and potential improvements. This development is crucial for fostering aviation skills among the youth, and the minister’s commitment to evaluating the center’s management model reflects a desire to maintain affordability and accessibility for aspiring pilots.
Public Concerns and Community Impact
Concerns have been voiced by community members, particularly about the implications of privatization on training accessibility. Yogesh Sasane, a former councillor and active protester at the gliding center, expressed that the facility has been instrumental in helping many individuals achieve their dreams of becoming pilots. He highlighted the success stories of former trainees, including those who have gone on to serve in the Air Force. Sasane pointed out that under the previous DGCA management, training rates were kept affordable, with the cost for each flying session capped at Rs 187. He fears that if a private entity were to take over the center, the focus on profitability might hinder ordinary people’s ability to pursue pilot training. The community’s anxiety about potential rate increases and the loss of accessible training programs underscores the importance of public oversight in aviation education.
Voices of Experience: Testimonials from Former Trainees
Personal stories from former trainees underscore the gliding center’s pivotal role in transforming lives. Laxman Kokate, a former deputy director of higher education in Maharashtra, shared his journey of becoming a pilot at the center. After returning in 2009, Kokate sought to learn a new skill and enrolled in the training program. His dedication paid off, as he earned his glider pilot’s license in 2012 after several flights. Similarly, Ruchira Gore, who earned her pilot’s license at the age of 17, fondly recalled her experiences at the center. Joining at 16 in 2007, she achieved her glider license within a year, crediting the rigorous training with boosting her confidence and teaching her perseverance. These testimonials highlight the center’s legacy of fostering talent and building a supportive community of pilots, reinforcing the need to safeguard its mission amid ongoing changes.
Conclusion
The future of the Hadapsar Gliding Centre remains pivotal to aspiring pilots in the community. Ensuring its development under a public-private partnership while maintaining accessibility is essential.
- Public-private partnership model aims to enhance training facilities.
- Community concerns focus on the potential impact of privatization.
- Success stories from former trainees emphasize the center’s significance.
- Accessibility and affordability are critical for aspiring pilots.
- Upcoming inspections will help shape the center’s future direction.
- Continued public involvement is crucial for maintaining training standards.
