Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, and Minority Affairs George Kurian emphasised the need for pursuing development without political interference, echoing the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. 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 across the world are competing for progress,” the Minister said, highlighting that both the Central Government and the State government are united in advancing development. “We must continue to move forward together in the same direction, setting aside political differences,” he added.
The new academic block, to be constructed with an allocation of ₹52.68 crore from the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK), marks a significant milestone in the university’s expansion. Mr. Kurian also cited several initiatives of his Ministry in Kerala, including the recent allocation of ₹50 crore for a hospital building at Vadakara, and the launch of the PM Vikas Skill Development and Women Entrepreneurship Programme for minority students at the Indian Institute of Information Technology, Kottayam. He further noted the introduction of modern academic programmes at IIT Palakkad and the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kochi.
Presiding over the event, Prof. Siddu P. Algur, Vice Chancellor of the Central University of Kerala, remarked that the university has made remarkable strides within a short span and is on a steady path of growth. “With new academic programmes being launched, infrastructure development must keep pace. The new academic block will be a game changer for the university’s future and stands as a testament to the Central government’s commitment to strengthening higher education in Kerala,” he stated.
Four-storey academic block
The proposed four-storey building, designed in traditional Kerala architectural style, will house the Departments of Management Studies, Tourism Studies, and Commerce and International Business under the School of Business Studies.
Spread over 7,500 square metres, the facility will feature 25 smart classrooms, departmental libraries, computer labs, and administrative offices. Notable sustainability features include a solar power plant, a one-lakh-litre rainwater harvesting tank, and a 500-seat seminar hall.
Published – October 30, 2025 11:28 pm IST
