Thiruvananthapuram, August 26, 2026: The Union Home Ministry has officially notified ‘Keralam’ as the new name of Kerala, with the change coming into effect from August 25, 2026. The notification marks the formal completion of the constitutional and legislative process for changing the name of the southern state.
The move follows Parliament’s approval of the Kerala Alteration of Name Bill. The Bill was passed by the Lok Sabha on August 11 and subsequently cleared by the Rajya Sabha on August 12. President Droupadi Murmu had earlier given her assent to the legislation, paving the way for the official notification.
From Kerala to Keralam
The adoption of the name Keralam represents an important cultural and linguistic milestone for the state. The name reflects the Malayalam usage traditionally associated with the state and is being formally recognised through the legislative process.
The change follows a process that required approval by both Houses of Parliament before receiving presidential assent and being notified by the Union government.
With the Home Ministry’s notification, the new name has now officially come into force, giving statutory recognition to Keralam in place of Kerala.
Legislative Process Completed
The renaming process moved through the required parliamentary stages earlier this month. After the Bill was passed by the Lok Sabha, it received approval from the Rajya Sabha the following day.
The President’s assent subsequently converted the legislation into law. The Union Home Ministry’s notification dated August 25 completed the final administrative step, formally bringing the name change into effect.
The development is therefore more than a change in nomenclature; it represents the conclusion of a formal constitutional and legislative exercise involving the state government, Parliament, the President and the Union Home Ministry.
Cultural Significance
For many in the state, Keralam carries strong linguistic and cultural significance because it corresponds with the Malayalam name commonly used for the region.
The official recognition of the name is expected to strengthen the state’s cultural identity while aligning its official nomenclature more closely with its linguistic heritage.
The transition will also involve the gradual adoption of the new name across official records, government communication and other administrative references.
The notification marks a significant chapter in the history of the state, as Keralam officially replaces Kerala as its name from August 25, 2026.
