Understanding the Process of Renaming a State in India

The process of renaming a state in India is a complex journey that involves multiple steps, starting from a proposal in the state assembly to the final approval by the President and Parliament. Recently, the proposal to rename Kerala to 'Keralam' has brought this topic back into the spotlight. This article delves into the formal procedures outlined in the Constitution, highlighting the roles of various governmental bodies and the significance of state assembly feedback. Discover how this intricate process unfolds and the factors that can influence its timeline.

By Ambika Singh Feb 26, 2026, 11:04 IST

Introduction to State Name Changes

New Delhi: The topic of changing state names in India has periodically surfaced, with the recent proposal to rename *Kerala* to 'Keralam' reigniting discussions on this constitutional matter. Renaming a state is not merely a declaration; it involves a formal and systematic procedure outlined in the Constitution, which begins in the state assembly and culminates with the approval of Parliament and the President.

Initiation in the State Assembly

When a state wishes to change its name, the first step is to present a proposal in its assembly. This proposal undergoes discussion and, upon receiving majority approval, is forwarded to the central government. For instance, on June 24, 2024, the Kerala assembly passed a proposal for the name change, marking the initial and essential phase of the process.

Legal Scrutiny by the Home Ministry

Once the proposal reaches the central government, the Home Ministry conducts a legal and administrative review. If necessary, opinions are sought from agencies such as the Intelligence Bureau, Survey Department, Postal Department, and the Registrar General. At this stage, it is assessed whether the name change could lead to any administrative or constitutional complications.

The Role of the President and Assembly Feedback

After the review, the proposal is sent to the President, who then seeks the opinion of the respective state assembly. The assembly provides its feedback. Although the final decision rests with Parliament, the state's opinion is a crucial component of this process.

Bill Presentation in Parliament and Final Approval

Following the President's recommendation, a bill related to the name change is introduced in Parliament. After discussions in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, if the bill is passed by a majority, it is sent to the President for final approval. Once sanctioned, it becomes law.

Publication in the Gazette and Timeline

After receiving the President's approval, the new name is published in the official government gazette. With this publication, the name becomes officially effective, and an amendment is recorded in the first schedule of the Constitution. There is no fixed timeline for this entire process; it can be completed in a few months or may take several years to finalize.

Note: The information provided here has been sourced from various media reports.