2011 - 100 Years of Civil Aviation | Commemorative Coin

The second commemorative coin released was to mark the 100 Years of Civil Aviation in India. The commemorative coin featured the new Rupee symbol "₹," which had been adopted in the year 2011 on all coins and currencies.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation, under the Government of India, plays a pivotal role in the regulation and oversight of civil aviation in the country.

Functioning as the nodal Ministry, it is entrusted with formulating national policies and programs for the development and regulation of civil aviation. The Ministry is instrumental in devising and implementing schemes to facilitate the orderly growth and expansion of civil air transport. Its comprehensive responsibilities include the oversight of airport facilities, air traffic services, as well as the carriage of passengers and goods by air. Additionally, the Ministry administers the implementation of the Aircraft Act, 1934, and holds administrative responsibility for the Commission of Railways Safety.

The inception of civil aviation in India dates back to 18 February 1911 when the first commercial flight covered the distance between Allahabad and Naini, spanning 6 miles. Henri Piquet piloted a Humber biplane, carrying 6500 mails, marking the world's inaugural airmail service and the genesis of civil aviation in India.

Subsequently, in December 1912, the first passenger flight in India took flight with the inauguration of the first domestic air route connecting Karachi and Delhi. This venture was a collaboration between the Indian state Air services and Imperial Airways, UK, establishing a significant milestone in the history of Indian civil aviation. Despite being an extension of the London-Karachi flight by the latter airline, it marked the commencement of regular passenger flights in the country.

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