Latur and Nanded in Marathwada region of Maharashtra would soon be on the aviation map with the launch of flights from this metropolis to these towns, Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel has said.

Patel made the announcement during the inauguration of the All-India Chhatrapati Shivaji Trophy Kabaddi tournament at Ambajogai in Beed district.

The aviation sector is growing and soon there would be 30 lakh new jobs in Indian aviation, Patel said. He asked youth to opt for professional and technical courses instead of sticking to traditional degree or diploma modules.

Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil and Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh hail from Latur, the second most developed town in Marathwada after Aurangabad.

Aurangabad, which is on the global tourism map due to Ajanta and Ellora caves, will soon be accorded the status of international airport, the minister said.

The minister promised a job in Air India to the most talented player of the tournament, in which over 40 teams from all over the country are participating. The tourney concludes on January 12.

Patel also announced a contribution of Rs 25 lakh (Rs 2.5 million) for the sports complex being built at Ambajogai at a cost of Rs 1 crore (Rs 10 million).

The tournament has been organised by the government of Maharashtra, State Kabaddi Association and Akshay Pratishthan, floated by Health Minister Vimal Mundada's son Akshay.

Mundada and Minister of State for Information and Public Relations Rajendra Shingane attended the function.