Pulikali funds blocked due to non-compliance with Centre’s conditions: BJP Thrissur district president

Image for representation.

The release of central financial assistance for Pulikali has been blocked due to non-compliance with the conditions laid down by the Union Tourism Ministry, claims BJP Thrissur district president Justin Jacob.

He said on Wednesday that the Center had sanctioned ₹24 crore as assistance to the eight Pulikali teams – ₹3,300,000 out of the ₹40 lakh demanded by the state government for organizing the festival in 2025. However, the support was to be disbursed on a reimbursement basis subject to strict adherence to the guidelines issued by the ministry.

According to Mr. Jacob, these included displaying the Ministry of Tourism and “Incredible India” logos on all promotional materials, acknowledging central support, showing promotional videos of the Ministry of Tourism, preparing videos documenting the events, mentioning the ministry’s assistance during the inauguration and closing ceremonies, and coordinating social media campaigns with the ministry.

He alleged that the district tourism authorities did not communicate these conditions to the Pulikali teams in advance. “The guidelines were only learned after the event was completed and the documents were submitted,” he said.

Mr. Jacob also accused the then district administration and tourism department officials of not properly implementing the guidelines contained in the official communication of the center.

In a press release, he charged that the inefficiency of the state government and the negligence of the tourism department had resulted in the Pulikali teams missing out on eligible central funds.

Published – 24 Jun 2026 20:34 IST