India introduces bill to rename Kerala to Keralaam

The Indian government has introduced the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026, in Parliament to officially change the name of the state of Kerala to ‘Keralaam’. The bill was presented in the Lok Sabha by Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, though it was listed under Home Minister Amit Shah.

The proposal follows a unanimous resolution passed by the Kerala Legislative Assembly in June 2024, requesting the change. The central government had previously approved the proposal in February. Under Article 3 of the Constitution, Parliament holds the authority to change the name of a state, provided the bill is introduced with the President's recommendation and the state legislature's views are considered.

In addition to the name change bill, the National Co-operative Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which has already passed the Lok Sabha, is expected to be moved in the Rajya Sabha. The Monsoon Session also faces scrutiny regarding the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) amendment bill and discussions concerning police actions during student protests.