NEW DELHI, April 25 (Xinhua) -- The Indian government has cleared the aviation ministry's proposal to allow private airports, airstrips and helipads for exclusive use by those who build them, The Times of India, a local leading newspaper, reported Friday.

    "This move will pave the way for more airports, better connectivity in far-flung areas and lesser burden on operational airports. Without this, the aviation sector would not have achieved its potential. India needs 400-500 airports and this is a step in that direction," Indian Aviation Minister Praful Patel was quoted as saying.

    Private airports would help ease the burden on busy airports like those in Delhi and Mumbai, and reduce traffic delay as well, the report said.