Jammu and Kashmir seeks 75% subsidy for chopper services

Demanding relief on the pattern of North-East states, Jammu and Kashmir government has submitted a proposal to the Centre seeking 75% subsidy for operating helicopters services on lease basis.

Replying to a calling attention motion in the Legislative Assembly today, chief minister Omar Abdullah stated that the state government has submitted a proposal to the ministry of home affairs for provision of subsidy for operating helicopters services on lease basis in the state on the pattern of North East.
 
The ministry has been requested to provide subsidy to the tune of 75 per cent of the cost, he said  in a written reply.

"The proposed air service is meant to provide connectivity to remote and inaccessible areas during winter months," chief minister said.    

The facility, to be provided to the people of Gurez among others, has been agreed to by the ministry of home affairs, he said.

The MHA has been reimbursing 75% of cost of such operations to some states in the North East.    

"The proposal is under consideration in the ministry of home affairs," Abdullah said.
  
J-K government has been arranging IAF helicopters on lease basis for ferrying people in remote and mountainous belts in winter season.