Kerala—widely known as “God’s Own Country”—may soon be officially renamed Keralam. The Union Cabinet cleared the proposal on Tuesday, and now the move enters the constitutional process that could formalize the new name.

Earlier, in June 2024, the Kerala Legislative Assembly passed a resolution to change the State’s name from Kerala to Keralam. Afterward, the state government approached the Centre to take the proposal forward.

AI GENERATED

Article 3 of the Constitution of India

Subject: Provision relating to change of name of a State.

1. Article 3 of the Constitution empowers Parliament to reorganize States.
2. Under this Article, Parliament may form a new State.
3. Parliament may increase or decrease the area of any State.
4. Parliament may alter State boundaries.
5. Parliament may also change the name of any State.

Procedure for Change of Name of a State

1. Proposal initiated by the Union Government.
2. The President refers the proposal to the concerned State Legislature.
3. State Legislature gives its views within prescribed time.
4. Consent of State Legislature is not binding.
5. Bill is introduced in Parliament.
6. Bill passed by simple majority.
7. Bill sent to President for assent.
8. After assent, name change becomes effective.

Important Points

1. Constitutional amendment not required.
2. Ordinary Parliamentary law is sufficient.
3. State opinion is advisory only.
4. Provision applies to creation, merger, boundary change, and renaming.

Examples of Change of State Name under Article 3

1. Orissa → Odisha (2011)
2. Uttaranchal → Uttarakhand (2007)
3. Pondicherry → Puducherry (2006)
4. Madras → Tamil Nadu (1969)
5. Mysore → Karnataka (1973)

Conclusion

Article 3 provides constitutional authority to Parliament to reorganize States and change State names in public interest and administrative necessity.