Thiruvananthapuram, 19 June (H.S.):The first Budget of the UDF government has laid out an ambitious roadmap to transform Kerala’s healthcare sector, with Chief Minister and Finance Minister V.D. Satheesan announcing a series of major initiatives aimed at strengthening medical infrastructure, expanding cancer care, improving preventive healthcare, and positioning the state as a global healthcare destination.

One of the most significant announcements in the Budget is the establishment of a second Government Medical College in Thiruvananthapuram to enhance healthcare facilities in the capital region. The government has also decided to revive the long-delayed Haripad Medical College project, which was initiated during a previous UDF administration but subsequently stalled.

In a major boost to healthcare services in northern Kerala, the government announced that the Malappuram Taluk Hospital will be upgraded into a state-of-the-art super-speciality general hospital. A new cancer treatment centre will also be established in Malappuram district to improve access to specialised oncology care.

With cancer cases on the rise, the Budget places special emphasis on early detection and prevention. The government has earmarked ₹20 crore for the deployment of advanced mobile diagnostic laboratories that will conduct screening and testing programmes across the state, particularly in underserved areas.

As part of a broader preventive healthcare strategy, the government will introduce a new programme ensuring that all citizens above the age of 40 undergo an annual health check-up. The initiative is aimed at identifying lifestyle diseases and chronic health conditions at an early stage.

Seeking to transform Kerala into an international hub for healthcare and medical research, the Budget has proposed the creation of the Kerala Health and Life Science City. An initial allocation of ₹100 crore has been made for the project. The government also announced the ‘Reach Kerala’ initiative, which aims to attract global patients and strengthen the state’s position in the rapidly growing health tourism sector.

The Budget also promises focused investments in medical education and infrastructure. Immediate steps will be taken to improve facilities at medical colleges in Kasaragod, Manjeri, Wayanad and Idukki, while leading government medical colleges across the state will be granted greater autonomy to pursue institution-specific development plans.

Addressing the needs of patients suffering from rare diseases, the government said it would introduce measures to make expensive life-saving medicines more affordable and accessible. In addition, new Caregiver Certificate Courses will be launched in government colleges to train professionals in caring for elderly persons and patients living with chronic illnesses.

The healthcare announcements form a key pillar of the UDF government’s first Budget and reflect its intention to strengthen public health infrastructure, expand access to specialised treatment, and prepare Kerala’s healthcare system for future challenges.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman