New Delhi: There are three operational defence airfields in the state of Bihar i.e. in Purnea, Bihta and Darbhanga.

There are two abandoned airfields at Panchanpur and Hathwa in Bihar. There are encroachments in an area of 15.97 acres and 338.66 acres at these airfields respectively.

Action for eviction of encroachments in airfields is taken as per the provisions of Public Premises Eviction Act.

Plans for utilization of airfields are based upon the operational requirements of the services. Such plans are reviewed from time to time taking into account the security, strategic and operational requirements.

This information was given by Minister of Defence Shri A K Antony in a written reply to Shri Jagadanand Singh in Lok Sabha today.