Gangtok, February 27, 2026 – Sikkim’s only airport, Pakyong Airport, will soon carry the name of Trilochan Pokhrel, a pioneering independence activist from the state. Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang announced the decision on February 26 during the 31st Foundation Day celebration of the Akhil Sikkim Khas Chettri Bahun Kalyan Sangh at Rangpo, near the West Bengal border.
Trilochan Pokhrel, popularly known as “Gandhi Pokhrel,” was a member of the Khas‑Chettri‑Bahun community and actively participated in the Non‑Cooperation, Civil Disobedience, and Quit India movements, drawing inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi. By renaming the airport, the state government aims to recognize his contribution to India’s freedom struggle and to embed that legacy into a key infrastructure asset.
Pakyong Airport, located about 30 km from Gangtok, was inaugurated on September 24, 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has since been a vital link for tourism, trade, and strategic mobility in the Himalayan region. The renaming will be formalized with a commemorative plaque and traditional rituals, followed by a brief technical presentation on the airport’s role in regional connectivity.
Chief Minister Tamang highlighted that the move reflects Sikkim’s commitment to preserving its historical heritage and promoting unity among its diverse communities. He also noted that the airport’s new name will serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by local heroes, inspiring younger generations to value national pride and social harmony.
The announcement was welcomed by local leaders, including Darjeeling MP Raju Bista, who used the platform to reiterate calls for Scheduled Tribe status for several communities in Sikkim and neighboring West Bengal, a matter currently under central government review.
With the renaming, Pakyong Airport will become a symbol of both modern connectivity and historical remembrance, reinforcing Sikkim’s identity as a state that honors its past while looking toward a prosperous future.
