New Delhi, Nov 30 (IANS) VIPs flying in military aircraft and helicopters have run up a staggering Rs.64.59 million in unpaid bills, parliament was informed Monday.
“A total amount of Rs. 64,592,973 is outstanding,” Defence Minister A.K. Antony said in a written reply in the Lok Sabha, adding: “Bills of airlift are raised by Air Headquarters against the concerned and necessary follow up action is taken thereon.”

No names or details of those against whom the bills are outstanding were given. Neither were the steps being taken to recover the money specified.

Antony also detailed the dignitaries who were entitled to fly in military aircraft, They include the president, the vice president, the prime minister, the deputy prime minister, the defence minister, the finance minister and other ministers of central government.

Besides them, the cabinet secretary, the defence secretary, the three service chiefs, foreign heads of states, the vice presidents and heads of foreign governments on state visit to India and foreign service chiefs on official visit to India are also eligible to travel by military aircraft, Antony added.