The Sikkim Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution to rename Pakyong Airport as Trilochan Pokhrel Airport. The proposal honours the state’s noted freedom fighter and now awaits approval from the central government.
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Key Facts
- Resolution Passed By: Sikkim Legislative Assembly
- Proposed Name: Trilochan Pokhrel Airport
- Current Name: Pakyong Airport
- Proposal Moved By: Tshering Thendup Bhutia
- Seconded By: Aditya Golay
- Cabinet Approval Date: March 19, 2026
- Next Step: Approval from the Government of India
Full News Report
The Sikkim Legislative Assembly has approved a resolution to rename Pakyong Airport as Trilochan Pokhrel Airport. With this move, the state government aims to honour one of Sikkim’s most respected freedom fighters.
Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia introduced the resolution, while MLA Aditya Golay supported it in the Assembly. As a result, the proposal received formal approval at the state level.
Earlier, the Sikkim Cabinet cleared the renaming proposal on March 19, 2026. Now, the state government will forward the recommendation to the Government of India for final approval. Therefore, the change will take effect only after the Centre grants its consent.
Meanwhile, Pakyong Airport remains a key infrastructure asset in the state. Located at an altitude of 4,848 feet, it serves as Sikkim’s primary air connectivity hub. Notably, Narendra Modi inaugurated the airport in 2018 as India’s 100th airport, marking a major milestone in regional connectivity.
The proposed renaming recognises the contributions of Trilochan Pokhrel, a prominent figure in India’s freedom movement. Popularly known as “Bande Pokhrel” and “Gandhi Pokhrel,” he played an active role in several national movements.
Influenced by Mahatma Gandhi, Pokhrel participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement. Moreover, he promoted Gandhian principles such as simplicity, non-violence, self-reliance, and the use of khadi and local industries.
Through this resolution, the state government seeks to highlight his legacy and strengthen Sikkim’s connection to India’s broader freedom struggle. In addition, officials believe that renaming the airport will inspire future generations to learn about regional heroes.
Question–Answer Section
What has the Sikkim Assembly decided?
The Assembly has proposed renaming Pakyong Airport as Trilochan Pokhrel Airport.
Who proposed the resolution?
Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia moved the resolution, and MLA Aditya Golay supported it.
When did the Cabinet approve the proposal?
The Sikkim Cabinet approved it on March 19, 2026.
What is the next step?
The proposal now awaits approval from the Government of India.
Why is the airport being renamed?
The state wants to honour Trilochan Pokhrel for his contributions to India’s freedom movement.
Location Context
Sikkim is a strategically important Himalayan state in Northeast India, where air connectivity plays a crucial role in tourism and economic growth. Therefore, Pakyong Airport serves as a vital gateway to the region.
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