Union Minister of State for Tourism, Suresh Gopi, defended the Union Budget, dismissing criticism as politically driven. He emphasized that the 2026–27 financial plan focuses on a long-term national vision rather than short-term electoral gains. As part of a government-directed outreach initiative, Union Ministers are engaging with the media nationwide to elucidate the Budget’s key areas.
Gopi highlighted that the Budget is aligned with India’s trajectory towards 2047, marking 100 years of Independence. He stated that the Budget outlines India’s future by 2047, suggesting that criticism would diminish if viewed beyond election perspectives. Responding to queries about the absence of a new AIIMS allocation for Kerala, Gopi noted that the institute was announced in 2016.
Expressing concerns over the state government’s role in facilitating the AIIMS project, Gopi questioned Kerala’s efforts in ensuring its establishment. While advocating for Alappuzha as the ideal AIIMS location due to its need for substantial institutional investment, he also mentioned Thrissur as an alternative if land in Alappuzha is unavailable. Gopi, the first BJP Lok Sabha member from Thrissur, emphasized that AIIMS will be established in Kerala, urging the state to identify and provide suitable land.
