What Steps is CM Vijayan Taking to Address Kerala’s Financial Crisis and Disaster Relief?
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Synopsis
In a crucial meeting with PM Modi, Kerala's CM Pinarayi Vijayan highlights the urgent need for intervention in financial stress and disaster relief efforts. With demands for substantial grants and infrastructure support, Vijayan's discussions reflect the pressing challenges faced by Kerala. Discover key insights from this high-level interaction.
Key Takeaways
- Demand for Rs 2,221.03 crore in disaster relief funds.
- Restoration of Kerala’s borrowing limits and financial support.
- Urgent need for infrastructure development, including AIIMS.
- Focus on urban planning and research initiatives.
- Positive response from Union Ministers regarding state demands.
New Delhi, Oct 10 (NationPress) Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan engaged in crucial discussions in Delhi over the last two days with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and various Union Ministers, advocating for immediate intervention regarding the state’s financial challenges, disaster relief, infrastructure development, and healthcare initiatives.
During a meeting with the Prime Minister on Friday, CM Vijayan underscored Kerala’s advancements and the obstacles it faces, stressing the necessity for prompt support from the Centre in four essential areas.
“The state reiterated its demand for Rs 2,221.03 crore in grant aid from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) to assist victims of the Mundakkai Choral Mala disaster. We want the funds to be classified as a grant, not a loan, for disaster recovery and rebuilding,” CM Vijayan told the press afterward.
Regarding financial matters, the Chief Minister requested the reinstatement of Kerala’s borrowing limits, the refund of IGST recoveries, and the reversal of cuts on off-budget borrowings.
He also sought permission to borrow an additional 0.5 percent of GDP and special consideration for covering 25 percent of national highway land acquisition expenses.
Furthermore, he called for the release of outstanding subsidies for paddy procurement amounting to Rs 221.52 crore and transport dues totaling Rs 257.41 crore, highlighting the financial pressure on farmers and state organizations.
Infrastructure and urban development were also discussed.
The state urged the Centre to expedite approval for setting up AIIMS in Kinaloor, Kozhikode, and to establish a School of Planning and Architecture (SPA) in Kerala to enhance urban planning and architectural research.
Chief Minister Vijayan also reviewed major national highway projects, including NH 66, NH 744, NH 866, and the Ernakulam and Punalur bypasses, with Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, who assured the timely completion of ongoing projects and the release of land acquisition funds.
On the healthcare front, the state sought approval for AIIMS Kozhikode and proposed an ICMR National Institute for Geriatric Care and Healthy Ageing, focusing on research, policy development, and care for Kerala’s elderly population.
These institutions aim to work together, addressing both tertiary care needs and geriatric research priorities.
CM Vijayan emphasized that these interventions are vital not only for the welfare and fiscal stability of the state but also for national goals, including disaster preparedness, education, healthcare, food security, and sustainable urban development.
Union Ministers reportedly responded positively, offering assurances of support and prioritizing Kerala’s essential requests.
Point of View
It is clear that Kerala's financial and infrastructural challenges are not just state issues; they resonate nationally. The proactive approach taken by the Chief Minister underscores the importance of collaboration between state and central governments to address pressing needs and ensure sustainable development.
NationPress
10/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the main demands made by CM Vijayan?
CM Vijayan demanded Rs 2,221.03 crore from the NDRF for disaster relief, restoration of borrowing limits, and subsidies for paddy procurement.
What infrastructure projects were discussed?
The discussion included the establishment of AIIMS in Kozhikode and a School of Planning and Architecture in Kerala, along with major national highway projects.
How did Union Ministers respond to these requests?
Union Ministers expressed positive responses, assuring support and prioritization of Kerala's key demands.
