Renaming of Jalalabad to Parashurampuri | 21 Aug 2025

Why in News? 

The Union Home Ministry has officially approved the renaming of Jalalabad town in Uttar Pradesh’s Shahjahanpur district to Parashurampuri. 

Key Points 

• About: The Union government has directed the Uttar Pradesh government to notify the new name, Parashurampuri, and register it in both Devnagri (Hindi) and Roman (English) scripts, along with all regional languages. 
  • The Uttar Pradesh government, in its request to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), had emphasized that Jalalabad is recognized as the birthplace of Parashuram, the saint, and is home to an ancient temple dedicated to him. 
• History: Jalalabad was established around 1560 and was named after Mughal emperor Jalal-ud-din Muhammad Akbar (Son of Humayun), popularly known as Akbar the Great.  
  • The state government began developing Jalalabad as a tourist destination in 2016. 
• Process of Renaming District: The Centre has no role in altering or creating districts, as states have the authority to make such decisions, but the Home Ministry is involved when a state seeks to change the name of a district or railway station. 
  • The State government’s request is sent to other departments and agencies such as the Ministry of Earth Sciences, Intelligence Bureau, Department of Posts, Geographical Survey of India Sciences and the Railway Ministry seeking clearance. 
  • A no-objection certificate may be issued after examining their replies.