The Union Cabinet is likely to approve a proposal to rename Kerala as “Keralam,” paving the way for a constitutional amendment ahead of state elections and officially aligning the state’s name with its Malayalam identity.
New Delhi: In an important development that respects the state’s language and culture, the Union Cabinet will likely approve a proposal today (February 24, 2026) to officially change the state’s name from “Kerala” to “Keralam.” If the Cabinet clears the proposal, it will introduce a constitutional amendment. Observers expect this decision just weeks before the important Kerala Assembly elections.
Background: A Long-Standing Demand for “Keralam”
“Keralam” has been the traditional Malayalam name of the state for centuries. The name comes from ancient references to the land of the Chera dynasty. During the freedom struggle, the demand to officially use “Keralam” became stronger as part of the movement for a united Malayalam-speaking state.
The recent push for the change began when the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, took clear steps on the issue:
- June/August 2023: The Kerala Legislative Assembly unanimously passed the first resolution. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan moved the resolution and urged the Centre to amend the First Schedule of the Constitution and rename the state “Keralam” in all languages listed in the Eighth Schedule.
- June 25, 2024: The Assembly passed a second, revised resolution after the Union Home Ministry asked for technical clarifications about the earlier proposal.
All political parties in the state supported the change, and they passed both resolutions unanimously.
What the Name Change Means
The proposal aims to replace the word “Kerala” with “Keralam” in the First Schedule of the Constitution of India.
After Cabinet approval, Parliament will need to pass a Constitution Amendment Bill. Once passed:
- The name “Keralam” will be used in all official records, government documents, maps, signboards, and references.
The change will apply in all 22 languages listed in the Eighth Schedule.
- The Malayalam name “Keralam” (കേരളം) will remain the same; only the English and other official language versions will be updated.
This is not about creating a new state or changing boundaries. It is only a name change. Under Article 3 of the Constitution, Parliament has the power to change the name of a state.
Today’s Union Cabinet Meeting: What Is Expected
Several media reports say that the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will likely discuss and approve the name-change proposal on February 24, 2026.
If approved, the government will introduce a Constitution Amendment Bill in the next session of Parliament for final approval.
Why This Change Is Important
Changing the name to “Keralam” will officially match the state’s name with what people have always called it in their own language. For many, the English name “Kerala” did not fully reflect the original Malayalam identity.
India has made similar changes in the past:
- Odisha (earlier called Orissa in English, changed in 2011)
- Mumbai (earlier Bombay)
- Chennai (earlier Madras)
People in Kerala see this change as a strong symbol of cultural pride and respect for the Malayalam language.
Mansi Sharma is a journalist covering Global Affairs, and wellness, known for turning complex ideas into sharp, engaging narratives. Her work is driven by curiosity, depth, and a constant urge to question and explore. When she’s not writing, you’ll often find her diving into new ideas—preferably with a cup of coffee in hand, one sip at a time.