25 February 2026| Dubai, UAE [ Posted at 1:00 pm]
The long-pending Kerala name change has finally moved a step closer to reality. In a major development, the Union Cabinet has approved the proposal to rename Kerala as Keralam, initiating the constitutional process to alter the state’s name officially.
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Why the Kerala Name Change Was Proposed
Overview: The demand is rooted in linguistic identity and historical accuracy.
The push for Kerala name change stems from the fact that the state is known as “Keralam” in Malayalam, the official language of the state.
Before diving deeper, here’s what the Kerala Assembly highlighted:
- The state is called “Keralam” in Malayalam.
- States were reorganised on November 1, 1956, based on linguistic identity.
- November 1 is Kerala Piravi (Formation Day).
- However, the Constitution’s First Schedule still lists the state as “Kerala”.
In both 2023 and 2024, resolutions were unanimously passed in the Kerala Legislative Assembly urging the Centre to amend the Constitution under Article 3. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan moved the resolutions, and even the state BJP extended support.
The renewed resolution in 2024 clarified technical discrepancies in the earlier proposal, ensuring that the change from Kerala to Keralam was properly reflected in the First Schedule.
Union Cabinet Approval: What Has Happened So Far?
Overview: The Centre has initiated the formal constitutional process.
The proposal for Kerala name change was cleared during a Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Narendra Modi.
Here’s what the approval means:
- The President will refer the Bill to the State Assembly.
- This is mandatory under Article 3 of the Constitution.
- The State Legislature must share its views within a specified period.
- After that, the Bill can be introduced in Parliament with the President’s recommendation.
If Parliament passes the legislation, the First Schedule of the Constitution will be amended to officially replace “Kerala” with “Keralam.” The Ministry of Home Affairs examined the request, and the Ministries of Law and Justice concurred before it was placed before the Cabinet.
The Historical Origins of the Name “Keralam”
Overview: The name has deep historical and cultural roots.
The Kerala name change debate is not just administrative; it is deeply historical.
Here are some fascinating origins linked to “Keralam”:
- The earliest mention appears in Rock Edict II (257 BCE), referring to “Keralaputra.”
- It is associated with the ancient Chera dynasty.
- Scholar Herman Gundert linked “Keralam” to “Cheram.”
- The root word “cher” means “to join,” possibly referring to a united land.
The demand for a unified Malayalam-speaking state gained momentum in the 1920s under the Aikya Kerala movement. Eventually, state reorganisation in 1956 formally created Kerala by merging Malabar, Travancore, and Kochi regions.
The move from Kerala to Keralam is being viewed as a symbolic return to linguistic authenticity.
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How Does a State Name Change Actually Work?
Overview: Unlike cities, states require a Constitutional amendment.
The Kerala name change involves a more complex legal process than renaming a city.
Before listing the steps, here’s a quick summary: the change must go through Parliament with Presidential approval.
The process includes:
- The proposal originates from the State Government.
- Examined by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
- NOCs sought from agencies like:
- Ministry of Railways
- Intelligence Bureau
- Survey of India
- Registrar General of India
- Draft Bill prepared.
- The President refers it to the State Legislature.
- Bill is introduced in Parliament.
- Passed and notified into law.
A previous example: In 2018, West Bengal’s proposal to rename itself “Bangla” was not cleared due to diplomatic concerns.
Political Consensus Around Kerala to Keralam
Overview: Rare bipartisan support strengthens the proposal.
Interestingly, the Kerala name change has received broad political backing.
- The Kerala Assembly passed the resolution unanimously.
- State BJP leaders extended support.
- The Union Cabinet processed the request without controversy.
This rare political consensus has accelerated the move from Kerala to Keralam, making it largely a procedural matter now.
What Happens Next?
Overview: The final step depends on Parliament.
After the Assembly shares its views:
- The President will recommend the introduction of the Bill.
- Parliament will debate and vote.
- If passed, the Constitution’s First Schedule will be amended.
- “Keralam” will become the official name in all constitutional records.
Once notified, the Kerala name change will become legally effective.
FAQs
1. Has Kerala officially become Keralam?
Not yet. The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal, but Parliament must pass the Bill.
2. Why change Kerala to Keralam?
Because “Keralam” is the name used in Malayalam, aligning constitutional terminology with linguistic identity.
3. Does this require a Constitutional amendment?
Yes. Under Article 3, Parliament must pass a law to alter a state’s name.
4. Will this affect terms like “Keralite”?
Official terminology may evolve, but such changes are usually gradual and practical rather than immediate.
Conclusion
The Kerala name change from Kerala to Keralam represents more than a symbolic shift; it reflects linguistic pride, historical continuity, and constitutional alignment. With Cabinet approval secured and political consensus in place, the final step now lies in Parliament’s hands. If passed, India’s map will soon reflect “Keralam”, the name its people have always used.
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