Last Updated:March 11, 2026, 14:49 IST

He also extended his greetings and best wishes to fishermen across Kerala and to the members of the Dheevara Sabha on the occasion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the Centre has approved the proposal to change the name of Kerala to “Keralam", stating that the move reflects the long-standing demand of the people of the state.

While addressing Golden Jubilee Sammelan of Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha, PM Modi said the Sabha has spent five decades working to protect the rights of the fishermen community and acknowledged the dedication and service of its members throughout the journey.

He also extended his greetings and best wishes to fishermen across Kerala and to the members of the Dheevara Sabha on the occasion.

“Today we are all witnessing a historic occasion. The Akhil Kerala Dheevara Sabha is celebrating its 50th anniversary. For the past 50 years, this organisation has been continuously working to protect the rights of the fishermen community. In this 50-year journey, your hard work has been a part of it. Your spirit of service has been a part of it. On this auspicious occasion, I extend my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all the fishermen of Keralam and to the members of the Dheevara Sabha," he said.

PM Modi said that Malayalis had long wanted the name of Kerala to be changed to Keralam, and now that it has been done, he can see the happiness on the faces of the people of Keralam.

“I can see that all the people of Keralam are happy. Malayalis for a long time wanted the name of Kerala to be changed to Keralam. As the NDA government at the Centre has approved it, I can see the happiness on all your faces. This beautiful state got its rightful name as per Malayali culture. I congratulate the people of Keralam," he said.

Appreciating the role of fishing community during 2018 floods in Kerala, PM Modi said, “During the devastating floods in Keralam, the entire country witnessed the efforts of fisherman community. You rescued people who were trapped and delivered essential supplies to those in need. That is why the whole nation remembers the courage, service and dedication of the fisherman community with respect."

While addressing a public meeting in Ernakulam, PM Modi said he was pleased to see what he described as a growing desire among people in Kerala to move beyond the political cycle of the Left Democratic Front and the United Democratic Front.

“I am pleased that the people of Kerala have now decided to break free from the vicious circle of the LDF and UDF. This confidence is clearly evident in this massive gathering. Despite Kerala’s immense potential, it hasn’t developed at the pace it should have. The pattern of one LDF government, another UDF government, has caused significant damage to Kerala. These two groups believe their turn will come in five to ten years. Therefore, they don’t work hard for Kerala’s development. This pattern is the reason for Kerala’s corruption," he said.

Urging the voters to support BJP-NDA government, the Prime Minister said, “For the development of Keralam, this pattern needs to be broken. That is why you should form a BJP-NDA government in Keralam. You have given Congress and the Left more than 70 years. Now give a chance so that BJP-NDA serves you. You will see a great glimpse of Viksit Keralam."

News india People Wanted State's Name To Be Changed To 'Keralam', Centre Approved: PM Modi

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