Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Minority Affairs George Kurian stressed the need to continue development without political interference, which is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision. He was addressing the gathering after laying the foundation stone for the new academic block at the Central University of Kerala (CUK), Periya Campus on Thursday (October 30).
“Development is essential. Nations all over the world are competing for progress,” the minister said, stressing that both the central and state governments are united in progressing development. “We must continue to move together in the same direction and put political differences aside,” he added.
The new academic block, to be constructed with an allocation of ₹ 52.68 crore from the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs under Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK), marks a major milestone in the university’s expansion. Mr. Kurian also cited several initiatives of his ministry in Kerala, including the recent allocation of ₹50 million for a hospital building in Vadakara and the launch of the PM Vikas Women’s Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Program for minority students at the Indian Institute of Information Technology, Kottayam. He further noted the introduction of modern academic programs at IIT Palakkad and Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi.
Prof. Siddu P. Algur, Vice-Chancellor, Central University of Kerala, presiding over the event, remarked that the university has made remarkable progress in a short span of time and is on a path of steady growth. “With the new academic programs that have been launched, infrastructure development has to keep pace. The new academic block will be a game-changer for the future of the university and is a testament to the central government’s commitment to strengthening higher education in Kerala,” he said.
A four-storey academic block
Designed in the traditional Kerala architectural style, the proposed four-storey building will house the Department of Management Studies, Tourism and Business Studies and International Trade under the School of Business Studies.
The facility is spread over 7,500 square meters and will contain 25 smart classrooms, a library department, computer labs and administrative offices. Notable sustainability features include a solar power plant, a one lakh liter rainwater tank and a 500-seat seminar hall.
Published – 30 Oct 2025 23:28 IST
