Savitri Devi and Trilochan Pokhrel Honoured: Airport and Medical College Renamed in Their Legacy

KalimNews, February 28, 2026, Gangtok: In a landmark announcement that marks a defining chapter in Sikkim’s contemporary history, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang, declared that the Pakyong Greenfield Airport will be renamed in honour of Trilochan Pokhrel, popularly known as “Bandey Pokhrel” or “Gandhi Pokhrel.” Simultaneously, Sikkim Medical College will be renamed after Savitri Devi, also known as Helen Lepcha, in recognition of her remarkable contribution to India’s freedom movement.

The announcement was made during the 31st Khas Diwas celebration at Rangpo, transforming the commemorative gathering into a historic reaffirmation of Sikkim’s shared pride and collective identity.

In a press release issued by Yougan Tamang the Press Secretary to the Chief Minister of Sikkim it is stated that Sikkim has always been a land where diverse communities, languages, faiths, and traditions coexist with harmony and mutual respect. Its true strength lies not only in its natural beauty but in the unity and understanding among its people. By honouring Savitri Devi and Trilochan Pokhrel—two freedom fighters whose lives were defined by sacrifice and service—the State reaffirms that Sikkim’s identity is built upon collective contribution.

For generations, their stories have been preserved in homes, community narratives, and local histories. Although their names may not have echoed widely beyond the hills, their courage and patriotism remain deeply significant. By inscribing their names on major public institutions, remembrance is transformed into permanence.

An airport serves as the gateway to the State, connecting Sikkim to the world. A medical college shapes the future of healthcare and public service. Associating these institutions with the names of Sikkim’s patriots ensures that history accompanies every traveller and inspires every student.

Honouring both a daughter and a son of the soil conveys a powerful message: sacrifice and merit transcend divisions. It reassures citizens across districts and communities that Sikkim’s history belongs to everyone.

At a time when societies everywhere are reflecting on questions of identity and belonging, this decision anchors Sikkim firmly in a narrative of unity and shared pride. It strengthens the emotional connection between people and public institutions by recognising the heritage that binds them together.

The renaming of Pakyong Greenfield Airport symbolically connects Sikkim’s principal gateway with the ideals of self-reliance and national consciousness upheld by Trilochan Pokhrel. Naming the medical college after Savitri Devi ensures that her legacy of courage and dedication will continue to inspire generations of young professionals.

These measures reflect the Chief Minister’s commitment to fostering unity among Sikkim’s diverse communities. The initiatives encourage families to share stories, educators to revisit historical lessons, and young citizens to learn about the sacrifices that shaped their State.

During his address, the Hon’ble Chief Minister declared the advent of “Swabhimaan Ko Naya Yug,” reaffirming his vision of guiding Sikkim into a new era founded on dignity, unity, and inclusive progress.

He emphasized the importance of preserving the history, traditions, and cultural heritage of every community in Sikkim, acknowledging that the State’s strength lies in honouring its diversity with equal respect. He stressed that the stories, languages, and customs of all communities must be safeguarded with sincerity, and that the contributions of those personalities who have selflessly served their community, the state, and the nation must be remembered with gratitude and dignity.

The Chief Minister further announced that educational institutions across Sikkim will observe “Miteri Saptaha” (Week of Friendship and Harmony). During this week, students will demonstrate the art, culture, language, heritage, and folktales of every community to promote mutual understanding.

He emphasized that “prejudice is the daughter of ignorance” and explained that Miteri Saptaha envisions the eradication of communal biases that often arise from a lack of cultural awareness. By acknowledging such individuals and their sacrifices, he said, Sikkim not only pays tribute to its past but also inspires future generations to serve with integrity and pride.

The declaration of “Swabhimaan Ko Naya Yug” reflects a deeper commitment — unity without erasing identity, progress without forgetting heritage, and governance that seeks not to divide and rule, but to unite and serve every citizen with fairness and respect.

By honouring Savitri Devi and Trilochan Pokhrel, Sikkim reinforces its collective identity and ensures that its rich history remains alive in the institutions where its future will unfold.