Union Minister Suresh Gopi on Thursday reiterated that Kerala will certainly get an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). He told reporters in Guruvayur, Thrissur district, that the prestigious central healthcare institution would be established in the State.
Centre Plans Another Major Project for Kerala
In addition to AIIMS, Mr. Gopi hinted that the Central government might allot another major project to Kerala. However, he withheld specific details, warning that premature disclosure could eliminate the project.
Referring to an earlier proposal, he said he would present documents related to a forensic laboratory project that did not materialise. Nevertheless, he assured that another significant project has already received approval at the Centre.
Land Allocation Key to New Central Project
Mr. Gopi revealed that Union Home Minister Amit Shah has cleared another major project for the State. “Let us see whether land will be allocated for it,” he said, underlining that availability of land remains a critical factor in project implementation.
PM Modi’s Visit Likely to Focus on Urban Development
Responding to questions about potential announcements during a possible visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Thiruvananthapuram following the BJP’s victory in the city Corporation, Mr. Gopi clarified that any declaration would come directly from the Prime Minister.
He added that the Prime Minister would not visit the capital to announce AIIMS. Instead, he may focus on the progress of the Smart City project, particularly if its implementation within the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation remains incomplete.
AIIMS Will Come Through Due Process, Not Individual Effort
Reiterating his long-standing position, Mr. Gopi said AIIMS would come to Kerala through an “organic process” rather than due to any individual’s efforts. He also noted that he has maintained a consistent stand on the issue since 2015.
“If AIIMS is not established in Alappuzha, then Thrissur deserves it,” he said, recalling his election campaign statements. He emphasized that although he represents Thrissur, he considers himself a Member of Parliament for the entire State.
Long-Standing Demand Backed by the State Government
As reported by The Hindu, Mr. Gopi has repeatedly promised the establishment of an AIIMS in Kerala since the beginning of his campaign in Thrissur. Meanwhile, the Kerala government has written to the Centre multiple times, seeking the allocation of an AIIMS for the State.
Other Infrastructure Demands Raised Earlier
During the previous parliamentary elections, Mr. Suresh Gopi had also called for the extension of the Kochi Metro to Coimbatore, highlighting his focus on large-scale infrastructure development for the region.
Together, these statements reinforce the Centre’s intent to strengthen Kerala’s healthcare and infrastructure landscape, with AIIMS remaining a key priority.