Cabinet nod to rename Kerala as Keralam, PM says 'will of people', Pg8

Key Highlights:

• The Union Cabinet approved the proposal to rename Kerala as Keralam on Tuesday.
• The Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026 will be sent to the state Assembly for approval.
• PM Narendra Modi stated the decision reflects the will of the people and strengthens the connection with the culture.
• The decision was made at the first Cabinet meeting held at Seva Teerth, the new PMO complex.
• The Kerala Assembly had passed a resolution in June 2024 to alter the name of the state to Keralam.

Detailed Insights:

• The President of India will refer the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026, to the State Legislative Assembly of Kerala for its views under Article 3 of the Constitution.
• The Kerala government requested the Centre to amend the First Schedule to the Constitution to reflect the name change.
• Article 3 of the Constitution allows for the alteration of the names of existing states.
• The Union Ministry of Home Affairs considered the alteration, with approval from Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
• The Cabinet resolved that decisions taken at Seva Teerth will be inspired by 'Nagrik Devo Bhava', focusing on citizen empowerment and nation-building.
• States were formed on the basis of language on November 1, 1956, also known as Kerala Piravi Day.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Article 3: Constitutional provision allowing alteration of areas, boundaries, or names of existing states.
• First Schedule: Part of the Constitution listing the names of states and union territories.
• Nagrik Devo Bhava: A sentiment emphasizing the importance of serving citizens with utmost respect.

Renaming of State