THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: After the Vandebharat train, Kerala expects an AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Science) from the central government, which was promised 9 years ago. Despite the rise of 23 AIIMS across the country, Kerala is still waiting for one.
Although there are many hospitals providing excellent treatment, the lack of research institutes is a limitation in our health sector. Sree Chitra Institute in Thiruvananthapuram is the only institution conducting cardiac research. Kerala has the highest number of diabetes patients and stands second in thyroid cancer in women.
In 2014, the Center had announced that AIIMS would be allotted if 200 acres of land with road and drinking water were provided. Land was found in Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, Ernakulam, and Kozhikode districts. With MPs pressing to bring AIIMS to their own respective constituencies, the Center clarified that the project is not under consideration in 2018. State government kept on pressing for AIIMS from then. Chief Minister demanded AIIMS in all his meetings with the Prime Minister. The Union Health Ministry recommended the Finance Ministry to allow AIIMS to Kerala, but no further action was taken in this regard. 162 acres of land in Kinaloor, Kozhikode is set to be acquired and handed over to the Centre. 40.68 hectares of land will be acquired in 2 villages for the future development of AIIMS. If AIIMS comes, 6727 endosulfan victims will not have to go to Mangalore for treatment.
If AIIMS is allowed
Construction cost of AIIMS: 2000 crores
In February 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised to allow AIIMS to provide expert treatment to the poor when he visited Justice VR Krishnaiyar in Kochi. ''
-Dr. NK Sanilkumar
Justice V R Krishna Iyer Movement, Kochi