Modi Announces Kerala Name Change to Keralam in Kochi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kochi, Kerala, on March 11, 2026, where he addressed the golden jubilee celebrations of the Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha, an organization dedicated to the welfare of the state's fishing community. During the event at Marine Drive, Modi announced the central government's approval of changing the state's name from Kerala to Keralam, describing it as a fulfillment of a longstanding demand by Malayalis and a moment of joy for the region's people.

Modi began his speech by greeting the audience in Malayalam and extended best wishes to fishermen across the state and members of the Dheevara Sabha. He highlighted the organization's 50-year efforts to protect fishermen's rights and commended their contributions during the 2018 floods, when they rescued trapped individuals and delivered essential supplies. "The whole nation remembers the courage, service, and dedication of the fisherman community with respect," Modi said.

The prime minister also outlined central government initiatives to support the fishing sector, including the installation of over 4,500 satellite-based transponders on fishing boats to enhance safety at sea. He emphasized the NDA...