China, India Set to Enhance Bilateral Relations with Launch of Direct Kolkata-Shanghai Air Route Ahead of Polls in Bengal

Direct Air Route Launches between Kolkata and Shanghai

Key Highlights:

• India's Consul General in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, launched a direct air route between Kolkata and Shanghai on [Date].
• Air India and IndiGo, India's leading airlines, have begun operating flights to Shanghai from Kolkata and Delhi.

New Connectivity Opportunities

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The launch of the direct air route is expected to enhance people-to-people ties between Eastern India and Eastern China, led by the two major cities, Kolkata and Shanghai. This new connectivity is also anticipated to boost the development of India's North-East region.

Historical Significance

The new air route has been launched in anticipation of Rabindra Jayanti in April, commemorating the legacy of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, who visited Shanghai thrice between 1924 and 1929. Shanghai is home to two busts of Gurudev Tagore, reflecting the strong historical ties between Kolkata and Shanghai.

Economic Impact

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The growing confidence and enthusiasm expressed through booming air connectivity and resurgent economic links between India and the region are expected to have a positive impact on the economy. This development has begun under PM Modi's regime and may potentially influence the outcome of the upcoming polls in Bengal.