Bhopal, Apr 5: The state government has earned Rs 54.50 lakh by leasing out eight airstrips in the state for aviation activities. Similarly, proposals have been invited from private agencies for some airstrips for pilot training.

At present, 25 out of 48 districts of the state have airports and airstrips while airports of national air route including Indore, Gwalior, Bhopal, Chhatarpur, Khajuraho and Jabalpur.

The airstrips which have been leased out for aviation activities are based in Ratlam, Ujjain, Guna, Khargone, Shivpuri, Rewa, Dhaba (Sagar) and Jhabua districts. The state government has earned Rs 54 lakh 50 thousand through the leases.

The state government is striving to develop more airstrips in the state so that rapid transport is made available at district level as well as remote areas.

Meanwhile, the state government has given administrative sanction of Rs one crore 80 lakh for developing airstrips in Umaria district. After completion of this airstrips, Bandhavgarh National Park would be connected by air service. This would boost tourism.

The state government has invited proposals from willing private agencies for developing airstrips in Satna, Pachmarhi and Sidhi districts for training of pilots, aeroplane maintenance and engineers.