Chandigarh, Jan. 3 -- Chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday batted for more international flights from Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, asserting that expanded overseas operations would significantly boost economic activity, tourism and investment across the region.

The CM's remarks came as the Chandigarh International Airport Limited (CHIAL) handed over an interim dividend of Rs.19 crore to the Punjab government. Mann said that stronger global air links from this airport would ease access for entrepreneurs and traders, generate employment for the state's youth, and position Punjab as a competitive destination for international business and tourism.

Interacting with officers of CHIAL, he said that the sustained growth of the...