Ludhiana, Feb 1 (NationPress) Describing it as a significant moment for Punjab, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated during the inauguration of the terminal building at Halwara International Airport that he has urged the Union government to rename the airport in honor of the esteemed martyr Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha.

The Chief Minister further urged the Centre to enhance international connectivity from the Mohali airport, emphasizing that Punjab is on a path where each of its four airports will honor the state's revered Gurus and martyrs, effectively connecting modern facilities with the rich spiritual and revolutionary heritage of the region.

Addressing the matter in the presence of Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu during the virtual inauguration led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Mann remarked, "Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha sacrificed his life for the nation at just 19 years of age. His remarkable sacrifice inspired countless individuals to rise up against British colonial rule, with even Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh considering him a role model."

He further noted that renaming Halwara airport after Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha would be a fitting tribute to a hero from the area who once attended Berkeley University to pursue a career in aviation but chose to return and commit his life to the freedom struggle of India.

"Punjab is a land rich in the legacy of great Gurus, saints, and martyrs. Every section of this sacred land is imbued with their sacrifices," he stated.

Chief Minister Mann highlighted that if Halwara Airport is renamed after Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha, two out of Punjab's four airports would be dedicated to revered Gurus, while the other two would honor martyrs.

"The Sri Guru Ramdass International Airport in Amritsar and the Sri Guru Ravidas Maharaj Ji Airport in Adampur are named after Gurus, whereas the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Airport in Mohali and the Shaheed Kartar Singh Sarabha Airport in Halwara will recognize our martyrs," he explained.

During the 'parkash purab' of Guru Ravidas, CM Mann expressed pride that the Adampur airport has been named in honor of the significant figure of the Bhakti movement.

"The vision presented by Sri Guru Ravidas Maharaj-ji to cultivate an egalitarian society is central to our government's commitment to serve the public," he emphasized.

The Chief Minister pointed out the strategic significance of Halwara airport, noting its integral role over the years, particularly in military operations.

He expressed gratitude for the armed forces' contributions in developing the terminal at Halwara, which is now open to the public.

"The state government will engage with the Union government soon to improve connectivity from this airport," he concluded.