New Delhi, Dec 7 (KNN) In an effort to bring down the trade deficit, the Ministry of Aviation has sought measures from trade bodies and India’s aviation regulator to cut non-essential imports of short-range aircraft, turbojets and helicopters, reported Deccan Herald.

According to the import alert set by the Commerce Ministry, India has witnessed a huge rise in the import of aeroplanes, turbojets and helicopters by the country’s aviation sector.

“It is requested to identify measures that can be taken to boost exports and contain a surge of non-essential imports so as to bring down the trade deficit. Industries/Associations may be consulted for a comprehensive industry appropriate strategy,” said memo as per Deccan Herald.

Baffled by the move, Mark Martin, CEO at aviation consultancy Martin Consulting said it is shocking to note that the government considers aircraft, helicopters and business jets as non-essential imports.

“This will leave an irreparable dent with Indian pilgrimage travel, the offshore oil and gas industry, charters operators, Udaan aircraft operators and essential aerial services,” said Martin.

He is planning to hold a meeting with the ministry to raise awareness of the aviation industry's contribution to the economy.

Martin has said such measures could push up the import duties on such products and force their operators to raise prices tied to their use.  (KNN Bureau)