New Delhi, February 24, 2026 – In a landmark decision welcomed by the global Malayalee community, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given its approval to officially rename the state of Kerala to Keralam. This change aligns the official English name with the traditional Malayalam pronunciation and spelling, honoring the linguistic and cultural roots that millions of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) from Kerala proudly carry across the world.
The announcement came from Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw after the Cabinet meeting at the new Prime Minister’s Office complex, ‘Seva Teerth’. It follows the Kerala Legislative Assembly’s unanimous resolution passed on June 24, 2024 (the second such resolution after 2023), urging the Centre to amend the First Schedule of the Constitution and adopt Keralam as the state’s official name.
A Long-Awaited Step for Cultural Pride
Kerala was formed on November 1, 1956, uniting Malayalam-speaking regions into one state – a dream born during India’s freedom struggle. In Malayalam, the state has always been Keralam, often lovingly called “God’s Own Country.” Yet, the Constitution listed it as “Kerala.” For NRIs, especially those in the Gulf, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and beyond, this correction resonates deeply. It strengthens the emotional bond many hold with their homeland, making official documents, passports, and global references reflect the authentic identity they grew up with.
The 2024 Assembly resolution emphasized:
“The name of our State is ‘Keralam’ in Malayalam Language. States were formed on the basis of language… Since the time of National Independence Struggle, there has been a strong demand for the formation of United Kerala for the people speaking Malayalam language. But in the First Schedule to the Constitution the name of our State is recorded as ‘Kerala’.”
This move celebrates that heritage without disrupting daily life or international recognition.
Next Steps in the Process
With Cabinet approval secured, the constitutional procedure under Article 3 begins:
- The President of India will refer the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026 to the Kerala Legislative Assembly for its views.
- Once feedback is received, the Bill will proceed to Parliament for debate and approval, followed by a constitutional amendment.
This is a standard process seen in previous state and city renamings across India.
Reactions from Leaders and the Diaspora
- BJP Kerala President Rajeev Chandrasekhar described it as a “proud day for all Malayalees,” thanking PM Modi for honoring heritage and countering divisive narratives.
- Congress MP Shashi Tharoor offered a light-hearted quip on social media, joking about new demonyms like “Keralamite” or “Keralamian.”
- For the vast NRI community – from Gulf-based professionals sending remittances that power Kerala’s economy to families settled abroad – this is more than administrative: it’s a symbol of cultural continuity and pride in “God’s Own Country.”
Many NRIs view the change as a bridge between their roots and global lives, ensuring future generations know the state by its true name.
Why This Matters to NRIs
Whether you’re renewing passports, filling out forms, or simply introducing your homeland, Keralam now better captures the essence of what you’ve always called it at home. It reinforces India’s respect for regional identities while uniting the diaspora under a shared, authentic legacy.
This historic step by the Modi government affirms linguistic harmony and cultural respect – a win for every Malayalee around the globe.
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