Chapter 13: The Birth of Royel Airlines

The morning sun bathed Mumbai in a golden hue as Shivaraj stood at the expansive balcony of his newly purchased penthouse suite. The Arabian Sea shimmered in the distance. Dressed in a crisp white shirt and navy-blue blazer, his eyes were sharp, focused. Today was different. Today, he had an appointment that would reshape the aviation landscape of India.

He boarded his private jet from Mumbai to New Delhi, accompanied by his assistant, bodyguards, and a dedicated legal advisor. Upon landing, a convoy of black SUVs escorted him directly to the Parliament complex, where he had secured an appointment with the Prime Minister of India.

The corridors of power whispered with curiosity. Rumors had already spread: the young billionaire who had shaken up global markets and media with his string of acquisitions — Apple, Disney, Universal, Royel Music — was now meeting the Prime Minister. Everyone wanted to know what was next.

Inside the grand conference room, the Prime Minister, a composed man in his early 60s with years of experience in governance, waited with a few senior cabinet ministers. As Shivaraj entered, the room fell silent. His charisma, confidence, and commanding aura filled the space.

"Mr. Shivaraj," the Prime Minister greeted with a firm handshake. "It is a pleasure to finally meet the man behind so many headlines."

"The honor is mine, sir," Shivaraj replied with a courteous smile. "I appreciate you taking the time to meet with me."

Everyone took their seats, and refreshments were served. After a few pleasantries, the meeting moved to business.

"So, Mr. Shivaraj," the Prime Minister began, "to what do we owe the pleasure?"

Shivaraj leaned slightly forward. "Sir, I would like to propose a joint initiative that will transform India's aviation infrastructure. I plan to establish a new international and national airline under my conglomerate — Royel Airlines."

Whispers rippled across the ministers. The Prime Minister raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

"And that's not all," Shivaraj continued. "I intend to invest 100 billion US dollars to build ten new international-standard airports in India's major capital cities. These will not only serve as aviation hubs but also as symbols of modern India's global stature."

The room fell silent for a beat.

"That is an ambitious proposal, Mr. Shivaraj," one of the ministers said. "May I ask — what cities are you targeting?"

Shivaraj responded confidently. "New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Pune, Lucknow, and Bhopal. Each airport will meet international standards and also include national terminal zones. They will incorporate smart technology, sustainability principles, high-end commercial zones, and elite hospitality lounges."

The Prime Minister looked impressed but contemplative. "You are speaking of a complete overhaul of our aviation infrastructure. How do you plan to implement this?"

"Royel Investments will fully fund the project," Shivaraj replied. "I am not seeking public funds or subsidies. The airports will be privately owned, but I propose a 10% equity stake to the Indian government in each for transparency and strategic cooperation."

One of the ministers leaned in. "And what of permissions, land acquisition, and environmental clearances?"

Shivaraj turned to his legal advisor, who handed over a thick dossier. "We have already completed feasibility studies for all proposed locations. Our teams have identified viable land, and we will follow every protocol of environmental and legal compliance."

The Prime Minister flipped through the dossier. Detailed maps, projected employment data, environmental plans, and projected passenger growth charts filled the pages.

"This initiative could generate tens of thousands of jobs," the PM murmured.

"More than that, sir," Shivaraj added. "It will increase tourism, boost trade, and position India as a major international transit hub. And with Royel Airlines headquartered in India, our homegrown brand will compete with global players."

The ministers exchanged glances. The magnitude of the proposal was immense — but so was the opportunity.

"And the airline itself?" the PM asked. "What is your vision for Royel Airlines?"

Shivaraj smiled. "A luxury and efficiency blend. Ultra-modern fleets, AI-integrated booking and service systems, biometric boarding, premium economy with luxury-class features, gourmet in-flight meals curated by top chefs. The experience will be unmatched."

He paused and looked directly at the Prime Minister. "Sir, with all due respect, India's current aviation sector is still far from world-class. We need to make air travel aspirational and accessible. This is not just a business for me — it's a national legacy project."

The Prime Minister folded his hands, deep in thought. After a long moment, he nodded. "Mr. Shivaraj, your proposal is bold — and frankly, unprecedented. But your track record speaks for itself. You have delivered on your promises and brought pride to this nation with your global achievements."

He turned to his ministers. "Let us provide him all administrative support needed. Form a joint task force with Royel Investments. Expedite the permissions. Let's move swiftly."

Everyone nodded in agreement.

"One more thing," the Prime Minister added. "Since this will be such a large initiative, we must ensure transparency and regular reviews."

"Of course," Shivaraj agreed. "I welcome oversight."

With handshakes and smiles, the meeting concluded. Shivaraj stepped out of the Parliament complex as journalists swarmed outside.

Though he didn't stop to speak, by the time he entered his car, every news channel across India had already begun flashing the headlines:

"Shivaraj to Invest $100 Billion in Indian Aviation: Royel Airlines and 10 New Airports Announced"

"India's Young Tycoon Strikes Again — A Revolution in the Skies"

As the convoy moved through New Delhi's streets, Shivaraj looked out the window and smiled. The seeds had been planted.

India would soon fly higher than ever before.