Kozhikode MP M.K. Raghavan has definitively declared Kinaloor as the optimal and most fitting location for the proposed All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Kerala, firmly rejecting any alternative suggestions. This strong assertion from the MP comes amidst a recent controversy, sparked by Union Minister of State Suresh Gopi’s proposition to establish AIIMS in either Alappuzha or Thrissur.
In a detailed press release, Mr. Raghavan emphasized the pressing need for an AIIMS in the north Kerala region. He pointed out the significant deficiency in three-tier healthcare institutions in this area, underscoring why Kinaloor’s selection is crucial for improving regional health infrastructure.
Significantly, Kinaloor has been the identified site for the AIIMS project for over a decade, showcasing long-term commitment. A substantial 151.58 acres of land have already been acquired for this purpose, with an additional 100 acres currently in the process of acquisition. The State government has consistently championed Kinaloor as its primary choice, despite presenting three other potential sites to the Central government as alternatives. Mr. Raghavan further revealed that Union Minister for Health J.P. Nadda, in response to one of his queries, had previously given assurances that Kerala’s demand for AIIMS would be carefully considered in the upcoming phase of the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY).
The MP stressed that the responsibility for identifying suitable land for the AIIMS rests with the State government. He also highlighted that a Central team, which conducted a thorough site visit, had also shown a clear preference for Kozhikode. Calling upon all political leaders in Kerala, Mr. Raghavan urged them to set aside differences and prioritize the collective interests of the state. He passionately argued that establishing an AIIMS in Kinaloor would offer immense healthcare benefits, extending beyond Kerala’s borders to serve the populations of north-western Tamil Nadu and south-western Karnataka as well.
Detailing his extensive personal efforts, Mr. Raghavan shared that he has engaged with both the Prime Minister and the Union Health Minister on the AIIMS matter on numerous occasions. He has raised the issue in Parliament an impressive 18 times, utilizing various parliamentary mechanisms such as submissions, questions, and presentations during Zero Hour. Additionally, he has held direct meetings with the concerned authorities approximately 15 times and even introduced a private Bill advocating for an amendment to the AIIMS Act. Through these consistent efforts, Mr. Raghavan expressed profound hope and optimism that Kerala’s longstanding and critical demand for an AIIMS will soon be realized.