Punjab CM Mann’s Vision: Honoring Shaheed Sarabha at Halwara
-CM Urges Centre to Boost International Flights from Mohali; Envisions All Punjab Airports Honoring Gurus and Martyrs
Ludhiana, February 1
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann today appealed to the Government of India to rename the newly inaugurated Halwara International Airport after revolutionary martyr Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, describing it as a deserving tribute to one of India’s youngest freedom fighters.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the airport’s new terminal building in Ludhiana—virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Adampur—CM Mann made the request in the presence of Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu. He also called for enhanced international connectivity at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Mohali, while reaffirming his government’s commitment to linking Punjab’s modern infrastructure with its rich spiritual and revolutionary heritage.
“Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha sacrificed his life for the motherland at just 19 years old. His courage inspired countless others, including Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, who saw him as an idol,” Mann said. He highlighted Sarabha’s local roots in the Ludhiana region, his studies at Berkeley University in aviation, and his decision to abandon a promising career to join the Ghadar Party and fight British rule.
The Chief Minister noted that naming Halwara after Sarabha would complete a balanced tribute: two Punjab airports honoring revered Gurus—Sri Guru Ram Dass International Airport in Amritsar and the recently renamed Sri Guru Ravidas Maharaj Ji Airport in Adampur—and two commemorating martyrs—Shaheed Bhagat Singh Airport in Mohali and the proposed Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha Airport in Halwara.
This vision aligns with the Punjab government’s ongoing efforts to preserve the state’s legacy, including a unanimous 2023 Punjab Vidhan Sabha resolution urging the Centre to adopt the name. Mann emphasized that such honors inspire youth toward selfless national service.
The event coincided with the Parkash Purab of Guru Ravidas, adding significance as Prime Minister Modi formally renamed Adampur Airport after the Bhakti saint and social reformer. Mann congratulated Punjabis on this auspicious occasion, calling it a proud moment as two key aviation projects were dedicated to the people.
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Praising Halwara’s strategic value—long used by the Indian Armed Forces in critical operations—CM Mann thanked the forces for their role in developing the civilian terminal. He announced upcoming discussions with the Centre to improve connectivity from the airport, with commercial flights expected to begin soon (initially to Delhi via Air India in early March).
The inauguration marks a major boost for Ludhiana’s industrial hub and the broader Malwa region, promising better air links for business, exports, and tourism.
Through these initiatives, the Bhagwant Mann government continues to demonstrate deep respect for Punjab’s Gurus, saints, and martyrs, ensuring their sacrifices guide the state’s progress into the future.
