Keralam name change: State issues phased implementation circular
Keralam's Chief Secretary issues circular for phased implementation of the State's name change, allowing use of existing stationery and boards.
The Keralam government has issued a circular outlining a phased approach to implementing the State's official name change from 'Kerala' to 'Keralam'. Chief Secretary Bishwanath Sinha issued the directive on Saturday, August 29, 2026, instructing all government departments and agencies to adopt the new name without imposing an "additional financial burden" on the State exchequer.
The circular explicitly permits departments to continue using existing stationery, including letterheads, envelopes, forms, and registers, until current stocks are exhausted. Instead of discarding these items, officials may make corrections by hand using ink. Similarly, official seals, rubber stamps, and other office tools should remain in use until they would ordinarily require replacement.
Sign boards, milestones, and other permanent or semi-permanent displays need not be changed immediately. Where feasible, existing signage bearing 'Kerala' can be modified to read 'Keralam' in both English and Malayalam. However, all new stationery, forms, registers, name boards, and official seals must reflect the updated name.
The circular follows the Union Home Ministry's formal notification of 'Keralam' as the State's new name, effective August 25. Mr. Sinha also clarified that the name change is not mandatory for entities with established brand identities, such as the Kerala State Electricity Board (KSEB), which may retain their existing names.