DELHI
New Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju Pusapati and his Minister of State Gowdar Mallikarjunappa Siddeswara would have tasks cut out for them when they assume office on Wednesday. They would have to address crucial issues facing the aviation sector including construction and upgrade of airports including low-cost ones across the country, reviewing the 5/20 rule to allow Indian carriers to launch global operations and the issue of downgrade of India’s safety ranking by US regulator Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
While Raju is a veteran leader, Politburo member of the Telugu Desam Party and a seven-time legislator, Siddeswara is a senior BJP leader elected from Davangere constituency of Karnataka for the third successive term since 2004. Raju, known for his philanthropic activities, belongs to the titular family of Vizianagaram.
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