IAF copters used for troop movement in Maoist-hit areas

Air Chief Marshal P V Naik today said some of the IAF helicopters were being used for movement of troops in Maoist-hit areas in different states.

Air Chief Marshal P V Naik today said some of the IAF helicopters were being used for movement of troops in Maoist-hit areas in different states.

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"Some of the helicopters were kept at the disposal of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), which used these in different states...The IAF choppers are being used in Naxal areas keeping in mind the requirements," the IAF Chief said at a function in the Sainik School here. Naik's statement about use of copters came in the wake of the Centre planning to hire 13 twin-engine, armour-plated turbine helicopters from private operators on wet lease for movement of troops in Maoist-hit areas and surveillance purpose.

About 20 choppers of IAF and BSF had already been deployed in Maoist-hit areas, officials said.