Jalandhar, Feb 1 (NationPress) In celebration of the 649th birth anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially renamed Adampur Airport in Punjab to Shri Guru Ravidas Maharaj Ji Airport on Sunday.

Following this, he is scheduled to visit Dera Sachkhand in Ballan to meet the spiritual leader of the Ravidassia community.

PM Modi arrived in Adampur less than four hours after the presentation of the Union Budget 2026 in Parliament, also inaugurating the terminal building at Halwara Airport in Ludhiana via a virtual platform.

The renaming of Adampur Airport, coinciding with the 649th anniversary of Sant Guru Ravidas, pays tribute to this esteemed saint and social reformer whose messages of equality, compassion, and human dignity continue to resonate within India's societal framework.

This initiative enhances the state's aviation infrastructure as the new terminal at Halwara creates a vital link for Ludhiana and its industrial and agricultural surroundings.

Halwara, located in the Ludhiana district, is also home to a significant Indian Air Force base.

Previously, Ludhiana's airport had a limited runway suitable for smaller aircraft. To enhance connectivity and accommodate larger planes, a new civil enclave has been established at Halwara with a runway capable of handling A320-type aircraft.

In line with the Prime Minister’s vision for sustainable development, the terminal is equipped with various eco-friendly features, such as LED lighting, insulated roofing, rainwater harvesting systems, and sewage and water treatment facilities, alongside the use of recycled water for landscaping.

The architectural design of the terminal reflects Punjab’s rich cultural heritage, offering travelers a unique regional experience.

On the occasion of Ravidas Jayanti, PM Modi will visit Dera Sachkhand Ballan, a significant sect within the Ravidassia community that holds considerable influence in the Doaba region, encompassing Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr, and Kapurthala districts.

During his visit, he plans to spend approximately 45 minutes at the Dera, meeting with Sant Niranjan Das, the esteemed leader of the Ravidassia community and head of Dera Ballan, who was awarded the Padma Shri on Republic Day.

PM Modi had last visited the Adampur airbase on May 13, 2025, where he engaged with courageous air warriors and soldiers shortly after India and Pakistan reached a ceasefire agreement. Adampur was among the air force stations targeted by Pakistan following India's Operation Sindoor, but the attack was unsuccessful.

The Doaba region controls 23 out of 117 Assembly seats, with Dera Sachkhand Ballan having a direct influence over at least 19 of those. Dera Ballan, situated in Ballan village about eight kilometers from Jalandhar city, was established in the early 20th century by Sant Pipal Das.