Punjab witnessed a significant day as Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated two airports, with Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann pushing for one to be named after martyr Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha. Mann emphasized the state’s progression towards naming all four airports after revered figures, blending modern infrastructure with historical legacy. During the virtual inauguration attended by Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Mann highlighted Sarabha’s pivotal role in inspiring the fight against British imperialism, urging the airport’s renaming as a tribute to his sacrifice.
Raising the issue at the event, Mann underscored Sarabha’s early martyrdom at 19 and his influence on freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh. He proposed that naming the Halwara airport after Sarabha would honor the region’s legacy, emphasizing Punjab’s rich history of spiritual and revolutionary icons. Mann envisioned a scenario where two airports are named after revered Gurus and two after martyrs, aligning with the state’s ethos.
Reflecting on Punjab’s heritage, Mann emphasized the significance of naming airports after iconic figures like Sri Guru Ramdass and Sri Guru Ravidas Maharaj Ji, alongside martyrs like Bhagat Singh and potentially Sarabha. He praised the naming of Adampur airport after Guru Ravidas, highlighting the spiritual leader’s teachings on social equality as foundational to the government’s service commitment.
Acknowledging the strategic importance of the Halwara airport, Mann lauded its historical role in supporting armed forces operations. He expressed gratitude to the armed forces for their contributions to developing the airport terminal, now open to the public. Looking ahead, Mann announced plans for discussions with the Union government to enhance connectivity from the Halwara airport.
