Suresh Gopi says that without the foundation stone of an AIIMS being laid in Kerala, he ‘will not go to people seeking votes’
Union Minister Suresh Gopi has once again strongly advocated for the establishment of an AIIMS in Alappuzha, reiterating his long-standing demand to bring a premier national healthcare institution to Kerala. Emphasising the urgent need for advanced medical infrastructure in the state, the Union Minister said that Alappuzha, known for its strategic location and healthcare legacy, is ideally suited to host an AIIMS campus that can serve not only Kerala but also neighbouring states.
Suresh Gopi highlighted that Kerala has consistently been at the forefront of public health indicators, yet lacks a centrally funded institution like AIIMS that offers world-class tertiary care, cutting-edge medical education, and high-end research facilities. According to him, establishing AIIMS in Alappuzha would significantly reduce the burden on existing government medical colleges, curb the need for patients to travel long distances for specialised treatment, and ensure affordable, quality healthcare for people from all socio-economic backgrounds.
The Union Minister also underlined Alappuzha’s strong connectivity by road, rail, and waterways, along with the availability of suitable land and supportive local infrastructure, as key factors that strengthen its case. He noted that an AIIMS campus would act as a catalyst for regional development by generating employment opportunities, boosting allied health services, and promoting medical tourism in the region.
Reaffirming his commitment, Suresh Gopi stated that he would continue to raise the issue at the national level and engage with the Union Health Ministry to push Kerala’s case forward. He urged the state government and political leadership to work in coordination with the Centre, set aside differences, and present a unified proposal to make the AIIMS project a reality. According to him, the establishment of AIIMS in Alappuzha is not merely a political demand, but a crucial step towards strengthening Kerala’s healthcare ecosystem and ensuring long-term public welfare.