Dr. A.R. Menon, a former physician, has the rare distinction of becoming the first Minister for Health in the state of Kerala. He was born on April 6, 1886. Though a medical man by profession, he was very much active in the social field and evinced keen interest in peoples’ issues.

Dr. Menon had served as a member of the Cochin Legislative Council from 1925 to 1945. During the period, he was the Minister for Rural Development for 5 years. After the integration of Travancore and Cochin, he was elected to the T C L A in 1954 (1954-1956) . He had also served as Municipal Chairman of Trissur for 14 years, and as the Chairman of Palakkad Municipality twice. In addition, he was a member of Madras University Senate & A.T.C.C.

In the election held after the state reorgnisation, Dr. Menon became member of the first Kerala Legislative Assembly contesting from Trichur constituency, as an Independent candidate and served as Minister for Health in the EMS ministry from 5.4.1957 to 31.7.1959. He was elected also to the second KLA as an Independent member from Parali constituency Dr. A.R. Menon passed away at the age of 74 on 9.10.1960, while still serving as a member.

The Assembly paid its homage to him on October 10, 1960.