CM Mann Pushes for Naming Halwara Airport After Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha in Letter to Civil Aviation Minister
Chandigarh, September 20, 2024: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has once again voiced his demand to name the upcoming Halwara International Airport after the revered martyr, Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha. In a formal letter addressed to Union Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu, Mann recalled that the Punjab Legislative Assembly unanimously passed a resolution on March 22, 2023, urging the central government to honor this request.
The Chief Minister emphasized the emotional significance this holds for the people of Punjab. Kartar Singh Sarabha, a young freedom fighter, has long been regarded as a symbol of inspiration for generations. According to Mann, naming the airport after Sarabha would serve as a fitting tribute to his sacrifice for the nation.
Mann noted that the interim terminal building for the airport, located at the Indian Airforce Station in Halwara, Ludhiana, is nearing completion and is expected to be ready by the end of this month. The Chief Minister further added that flight operations from the airport are anticipated to commence by the end of this year.
He reiterated that this request was not new, as he had previously discussed the matter with the former Union Civil Aviation Minister. Mann stressed the importance of recognizing national heroes like Kartar Singh Sarabha by naming key infrastructures after them. He argued that this would help preserve their legacy and inspire future generations to serve the nation selflessly.
Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, who was an active leader of the Ghadar Party, played a pivotal role in the struggle against British imperialism. His tireless efforts, both abroad and in India, fueled the fight for the country’s independence. Mann reiterated that the naming of Halwara International Airport would be a humble homage to Sarabha’s role in India’s freedom movement.
Drawing a parallel, Mann pointed out that the Mohali International Airport was renamed after another legendary freedom fighter, Shaheed Bhagat Singh, due to the efforts of the state government. He emphasized that naming airports, universities, and other institutions after iconic figures like Sarabha helps keep their contributions alive in the nation’s memory. He concluded by saying that such actions serve as a powerful reminder for the youth to emulate the selflessness and patriotism demonstrated by these martyrs.
Mann urged the Ministry of Civil Aviation to consider the resolution passed by the Punjab Legislative Assembly and officially name the Halwara airport after Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, honoring the deep sentiments of the people of Punjab.
