The Kerala government has reportedly submitted multiple proposals over the years for establishing an AIIMS, a prestigious medical institution aimed at enhancing healthcare services in the state. Despite these efforts, the proposal to establish an AIIMS in Kerala has not been approved by the Union government. This ongoing delay has raised concerns among local leaders and healthcare advocates.
In 2016, several potential locations for the AIIMS were identified, with the Kerala government ultimately selecting land in Kinalur, Kozhikode, in 2025. However, the Centre has not provided a timeline for the approval of the AIIMS proposal, leaving many to speculate about the reasons behind the holdup.
Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Prataprao Jadhav confirmed, “The proposal for establishing AIIMS in Kerala has not been approved.” This statement highlights the lack of progress on a project that many believe is crucial for addressing the state’s healthcare needs.
The absence of an AIIMS in Kerala has transformed into a significant political issue, especially with state Assembly elections on the horizon. Congress MPs Kodikunnil Suresh and Adoor Prakash have voiced their concerns, linking the demand for an AIIMS to the broader healthcare needs of the population.
In 2019, the Union Health Ministry sought ‘in-principle’ approval from the Finance Ministry for the establishment of an AIIMS in Kerala, but since then, little has changed. Observers note that the delay in approval could have implications for the upcoming elections, as voters may hold the ruling party accountable for the lack of healthcare infrastructure.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific reasons for the delay in approval of the AIIMS proposal. The timeline for the approval or implementation of the AIIMS proposal remains unclear, further complicating the situation for local leaders and healthcare advocates.
As the political landscape evolves, the demand for an AIIMS in Kerala continues to resonate with the public, reflecting a broader concern for adequate healthcare services in the state. The coming months will likely see intensified discussions surrounding this issue, as both political parties seek to address the healthcare needs of their constituents.
