The Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026 officially renames the state of Kerala as “Keralam,” aligning its constitutional identity with the native Malayalam usage. Passed in the Lok Sabha on 11 August 2026, the Bill amends multiple constitutional provisions to reflect the new name.
📜 Background & History
- Kerala Assembly Resolution (2024): The Kerala Legislative Assembly unanimously resolved to change the state’s name to Keralam, citing linguistic and cultural authenticity.
- Cabinet Approval (Feb 2026): The Union Cabinet, chaired by PM Narendra Modi, approved the proposal, following constitutional procedure under Article 3.
- Parliamentary Passage (Aug 2026): The Bill was introduced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and later moved by MoS Home Nityanand Rai.
⚖️ Constitutional Amendments
The Bill makes changes across several constitutional articles and schedules:
- Article 31A & 290A: Substitutes “Kerala” with “Keralam.”
- First Schedule: Updates the official list of states.
- Fourth Schedule: Alters references in Rajya Sabha seat allocation.
- Adaptation of Laws: Both Central and State governments empowered to update laws, notifications, and records within one year.
🌍 Significance of the Name Change
- Cultural Identity: “Keralam” is the original Malayalam name, reflecting linguistic pride and historical continuity since Kerala Piravi (formation day, 1 Nov 1956).
- Precedents: Similar renaming exercises include Orissa → Odisha (2011) and Uttaranchal → Uttarakhand (2007).
- Symbolic Assertion: Strengthens regional identity while aligning with the principle of states formed on linguistic basis.
🦁 Kerala’s Demography & Identity
- Population: Over 3.5 crore (35 million) people, with high literacy (96%) and strong human development indicators.
- Language: Malayalam is the official language; “Keralam” is its authentic usage.
- Cultural Heritage: Known for Onam, Kathakali, Ayurveda, and spice trade history.
- Geography: Coastal state with Western Ghats biodiversity, famous backwaters, and high urbanization.
