Will Navi Mumbai International Airport Be Named After Loknete D B Patil?
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Synopsis
In a significant announcement, Maharashtra's Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, declared that the Navi Mumbai International Airport will be named after the influential leader Loknete D B Patil. This decision highlights the government's commitment to honoring those who have significantly contributed to the region's development.
Key Takeaways
- Navi Mumbai International Airport to be named after Loknete D B Patil.
- Proposal approved by Prime Minister Modi.
- Includes naming of other airports in the region.
- Legal cases against protesters will be withdrawn.
- Official announcement to follow the start of passenger operations.
Mumbai, Oct 3 (NationPress) Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Friday that the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) will be officially named after Loknete D B Patil.
In a recent meeting, he sought the approval of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for this proposal, which has been met with a favorable response. This proposal also includes the naming of the airports in Pune and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
“We expect the Centre’s approval shortly,” stated the Chief Minister.
D B Patil was pivotal in the development of Navi Mumbai and was a staunch advocate for those affected by land acquisition. He was a leading figure in the movement to safeguard the interests of farmers and communities impacted by projects.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed the state government's commitment to naming NMIA after Loknete D B Patil, indicating that the central government shares this perspective.
“The central government had previously authorized the construction of the airport under the name 'Navi Mumbai International Airport'. However, this name has now been extended to 'Loknete D B Patil Navi Mumbai International Airport', in accordance with the proposal forwarded by our state government,” he elaborated after engaging with various party members and organizations advocating for this naming.
“An official announcement for 'Loknete D B Patil Navi Mumbai International Airport' will take place once passenger traffic commences. During this 'dry run' phase, we will be facilitating air passenger bookings and addressing technical preparations,” he mentioned.
Fadnavis also revealed that the resolution to name Navi Mumbai International Airport after Loknete D B Patil has been approved by both legislative houses, and the state cabinet has already submitted the proposal to the central government.
“A clear policy is being formulated at the central government level regarding such naming conventions, which is causing some delays. However, the airport naming will occur soon in alignment with the new policy,” he added.
Additionally, the government has proposed renaming the existing Pune airport after Jagadguru Sant Tukaram and the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar airport after Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
“All three proposals, including NMIA, are under consideration by the central government and are expected to receive approval soon, in line with the state government's request and the new policy. Similar proposals from other states are also awaiting approval,” he commented.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister announced that cases filed against protesters concerning the naming of Navi Mumbai International Airport would be dropped.
Instructions will be implemented to withdraw these cases to prevent any hindrance to employment opportunities at the airport. Since these protests occurred during the COVID period, certain protesters also have cases against them related to COVID regulations, and actions will be taken to withdraw such cases with judicial approval as per the rules,” he stated.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the significance of naming infrastructural projects after influential leaders. This decision reflects not only the local sentiment but also showcases the government's effort to honor those who have shaped the region's identity and development. Such actions can foster a sense of community pride and historical acknowledgment.
NationPress
03/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Navi Mumbai International Airport being named after D B Patil?
The airport is being named after D B Patil to honor his contributions to the development of Navi Mumbai and his advocacy for displaced communities.
What is the status of the proposal for the name change?
The proposal has received a positive response from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and is expected to be approved by the central government soon.
What other airports are included in this naming initiative?
The proposal also includes naming the Pune airport after Jagadguru Sant Tukaram and the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar airport after Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
Will there be any legal consequences for protesters?
The Chief Minister has announced that cases against protesters related to the naming will be withdrawn to ensure no hindrance to employment opportunities.
When will the official announcement be made?
The official announcement for the airport's new name will be made once passenger traffic begins.
