THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala has acquired two Vande Bharat trains to expedite transportation. Presently, the state aspires to establish an All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) for cutting-edge medical treatment and advanced research. To achieve this, the state government has procured 252 acres of land in Kinalur, Kozhikode. In 2014, the central government had the allocation of 200 acres of land for the establishment of AIIMS. Despite the presence of 25 AIIMS institutions across the nation, Kerala's anticipation lingers.

There are indications that the government might authorize the establishment of AIIMS before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The government has intensified its efforts and negotiations with authorities in Delhi for this purpose. ‘Kerala Kaumudi’ has extensively covered the issue highlighting the perceived bias in not designating an AIIMS for Kerala. Locations such as Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam, Ernakulam and Kozhikode were proposed for the AIIMS project. In response to this, both the Members of Parliament and the state government have consistently exerted pressure. As a result, the Union Health Ministry recommended the initiative to the Finance Ministry. Regrettably, no further progress has been observed since.

Although the required land has been secured, progress has been stymied. Notably, 153 acres of land from the Industries Department and an additional 99 acres of private land have been procured. A protective barrier has been erected in Kinalur to enclose the acquired land. The government has also granted permission to promptly furnish all relevant documentation to the central authorities. The private land that was acquired has also been earmarked for potential transformation into paddy fields in compliance with the Wetlands Conservation Act.

Potential benefits of AIIMS

High-quality specialized medical treatment at no cost

World-renowned medical research facilities

Proficient medical practitioners

Skill enhancement for other medical professionals

Incorporation of 50 educational departments and centers

Establishment of brain biobanks

A well-equipped hospital with 750 beds

Inclusion of 20 super-specialty departments

Provision of 300 emergency beds

A potential capacity for 200 MBBS seats

Delivery of exceptional nursing education

Estimated expenditure of 2000 crore for the AIIMS project.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has advocated for the Union Ministry of Health to promptly authorize the establishment of AIIMS. This demand has been a longstanding aspiration of Kerala. Although a favourable outcome was seemingly agreed upon during discussions with the Prime Minister, Kerala was ultimately omitted from the final list of approved locations.