Mumbai, June 24: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav reaffirmed his government’s commitment to honor Rani Durgavati, a prominent figure in tribal society and the queen of Gondwana. He announced plans to personally advocate for renaming Dumna Airport in Jabalpur after this legendary warrior.
This announcement was made during events commemorating Rani Durgavati’s martyrdom day in Jabalpur. The queen sacrificed her life on June 24, 1564, fighting against the Mughal army led by Asaf Khan.
CM Mohan Yadav stated, “I will take this proposal to the central government to rename Dumna Airport in honor of Rani Durgavati. Our government has always worked to honor her legacy, and last year we named a major flyover in Jabalpur after her.”
The issue was raised by Rakesh Singh, the Minister of Public Works Department (PWD) and a senior BJP leader. He reminded the Chief Minister that the Madhya Pradesh Assembly had passed a proposal last year to rename Dumna Airport after Rani Durgavati, which was sent to the center for approval.
Rakesh Singh said, “The Assembly has passed the proposal and sent it to Delhi. There has been no decision yet, so I urge the Chief Minister to ensure that the center approves it as soon as possible to fulfill this long-standing demand of the people of Mahakaushal.”
This demand has garnered support from all parties. However, opposition leader Umang Singhar raised concerns about the delay in implementing the proposal.
Singhar criticized, “When both the Madhya Pradesh and central governments are led by the BJP, why has the proposal not been implemented yet? The Chief Minister should not just make announcements; he should inform the people when the airport will actually be named after Rani Durgavati.”
Dumna Airport, officially known as Jabalpur Airport, is one of the major aviation hubs in Madhya Pradesh, serving the Mahakaushal region. Located about 20 kilometers from Jabalpur city, the airport has seen significant expansion in recent years, including the construction of a modern terminal building and improved facilities for passengers.
The airport currently operates under the Airports Authority of India and connects Jabalpur to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru.
The proposal to rename the airport after Rani Durgavati is viewed as a symbolic recognition of her contributions to tribal history and her valiant resistance against invading armies. Born in 1524 and married to Gond ruler Dalpat Shah, Rani Durgavati is revered throughout central India for her courage, administrative acumen, and sacrifice. Her martyrdom day is celebrated as ‘Shaheed Diwas,’ a day remembered across Madhya Pradesh, especially in the Mahakaushal region, where she remains a lasting symbol of tribal pride, valor, and self-respect.
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