Karnataka CM Pushes for AIIMS in Raichur
- CM Siddaramaiah advocates for AIIMS in Raichur, citing its underdeveloped status.
- Hubballi-Dharwad residents counterclaim, emphasizing their city’s wider reach and infrastructure.
- Final decision awaits central government’s assessment.
Bengaluru, Karnataka: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has reignited the debate over the location of a proposed All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Karnataka, writing to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman requesting its establishment in the district of Raichur in the upcoming Union Budget.
In his letter, Siddaramaiah highlighted the “aspirational” status of Raichur, emphasizing its need for a high-quality referral medical center due to lagging healthcare, education, and per capita income compared to other parts of the state. He said Raichur is the most suitable option.
However, this claim has sparked opposition from residents of Hubballi-Dharwad, another city vying for the prestigious institute. They point to their city’s strong connectivity, infrastructure, and potential to serve a wider population of 10-12 surrounding districts as key advantages.
The debate over the AIIMS location has been ongoing for some time, with both Raichur and Hubballi-Dharwad presenting compelling arguments. The final decision now rests with the central government, taking into account various factors like infrastructure, accessibility, and potential impact on healthcare delivery in the region.
