The establishment of an AIIMS in Kerala has faced delays, with the proposal still unapproved by the Union government. This issue has become politically significant ahead of elections.
The Kerala government has reportedly submitted multiple proposals over the years for establishing an AIIMS, a premier medical institution aimed at enhancing healthcare services in the state. Despite these efforts, the proposal for an AIIMS in Kerala has not yet received approval from the Union government, leaving many residents concerned about their healthcare needs.
In 2025, the Kerala government identified land in Kinalur, Kozhikode, for the proposed AIIMS project. However, the Centre has not provided a timeline for when or if the proposal will be approved. This lack of clarity has led to growing frustration among local leaders and citizens alike.
Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, confirmed that the proposal for establishing AIIMS in Kerala has not been approved. This statement has reignited discussions about the healthcare infrastructure in the state, particularly as the demand for an AIIMS is closely linked to the state’s pressing healthcare needs.
The issue has taken on a political dimension, especially with state Assembly elections approaching. Congress MPs Kodikunnil Suresh and Adoor Prakash have highlighted that the absence of an AIIMS in Kerala has become a significant political issue, as voters seek assurances regarding healthcare improvements.
Historically, the Union Health Ministry sought ‘in-principle’ approval from the Finance Ministry for establishing an AIIMS in Kerala back in 2019. Despite identifying several potential locations for the project in 2016, the lack of progress has raised questions about the commitment of the Union government to address the healthcare challenges faced by the state.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the reasons for the delay in approval of the AIIMS proposal. Observers note that the timeline for the approval or implementation of the AIIMS proposal remains unclear, further complicating the situation.
As the political landscape evolves ahead of the elections, the demand for an AIIMS in Kerala is expected to remain a focal point of discussion among candidates and constituents alike. The outcome of this issue could significantly influence voter sentiment and the future of healthcare in the region.
