US states mark India's 80th Independence Day with India Day proclamations

US states and political leaders marked India's 80th Independence Day with proclamations and messages. The tributes underlined the Indian diaspora's growing influence and the deepening India-US partnership.

In Short

• Lawmakers praised Indian-Americans for strengthening local economies, schools and healthcare systems
• Indian missions across America prepared annual August 15 celebrations with diaspora participation
• New York highlighted shared democratic values linking both nations' freedom struggles

Several American states and political leaders have marked India's 80th Independence Day with messages praising India-US ties and the contribution of the Indian diaspora to the economic and cultural life of the United States. Governors in multiple states have also issued proclamations saying August 15, 2026, will be observed as 'India Day' or 'India Independence Day' in their jurisdictions.

Prominent Senators and lawmakers also congratulated India and the Indian-American community, highlighting their achievements. The messages came as Indian missions across the US prepared for the annual Independence Day events that draw large participation from the diaspora community.

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte, in a special video message posted on X by the Consulate General of India in Seattle, said his state deeply appreciates the contribution of the Indian and Indian-American community to "our state's cultural, educational, and economic life". "Your commitment to innovation, learning, and community enriches all of us," he said.

Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy said the milestone of India's 80th Independence Day honours the courage and determination of those who fought for freedom and self-governance. "Alaska is proud to be home to a vibrant Indian and Indian American community. Your contributions to our economy, our school, our healthcare system, our businesses, and our communities makes Alaska a stronger place," he said. South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden said, "May the friendship between our people continue to grow stronger in the years ahead."

Several states, counties and cities in the Pacific Northwest also issued proclamations for the occasion. These included proclamations by the states of Washington and Nebraska, apart from the cities of Seattle, Bellevue, Kent and SeaTac, and the King County Council. Earlier, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Delaware on the East Coast had issued proclamations declaring August 15, 2026, as 'India Day' across the states.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul issued a proclamation recognising August 15, 2026, as 'India Independence Day' across the state. The proclamation said that "a significant and historic journey of rejecting colonial rule to embrace self-determination, self-governance, and the ongoing promise of democracy unites the United States and India-a connection deeply felt across our state, which itself served as a critical battleground for liberty during the struggle for American freedom".

It also said the annual commemoration of India's Independence Day in the United States has become a "magnificent testament to cross-cultural harmony, marked by vibrant festivals where multigenerational gatherings proudly honour the rich patriotic traditions of both nations, symbolising the deep-seated bonds that unite these two great democracies". It added that on the anniversary of India's independence, the "Empire State celebrates our Indian American neighbours who enrich the cultural tapestry, economic vigour, and civic fabric of communities across the state, weaving the proud legacy of this monumental independence journey into the heart of New York".

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, in a proclamation naming August 15, 2026, as "Indian Independence Day" in New Jersey, recognised the contribution of the Indian-American community to education, healthcare, research, technology, business, public service and community leadership. The proclamation also celebrated the enduring India-US friendship and the growing partnership in education, commerce, technology, healthcare and cultural exchange.

Delaware Governor Matthew Meyer said in his proclamation that the state is "strengthened" by the many cultures and traditions represented across its communities, including the growing Indian-American community. "Delawareans of Indian heritage have enriched our State through their work, leadership, and service in communities across Delaware, contributing to our shared prosperity and creating opportunities for future generations," it said. It added, "India's history is rooted in a remarkable diversity of languages, traditions, faiths, and customs, and generations of Indian Americans have carried these traditions forward while building lives and communities in the United States." The proclamation said 'India Day' offers an opportunity to honour India's independence, celebrate the heritage and achievements of Delaware's Indian-American community, and recognise the lasting connections between the communities and the people of India. Through it, Meyer encouraged all citizens to celebrate India Day, recognise the contribution of Delaware's Indian-American community, and "honour the enduring ties between our communities and the people of India".

Every year on August 15, flag-hoisting ceremonies are held at the Indian Embassy in Washington, consulates and the Indian mission to the UN, along with parades, cultural performances and special events across US states and cities. Members of the Indian-American and diaspora communities take part in large numbers, while political leaders share messages that underline their contribution to the American economic and social fabric. Prominent landmarks, from the Empire State Building in New York to the Space Needle in Seattle, are also lit up in the colours of the Indian flag and host ceremonies to unfurl the Tricolour.

Overall, the messages and proclamations across the US linked India's 80th Independence Day with the growing India-US partnership and recognised the role of the Indian-American community in public life, business, culture and civic life.

With PTI Inputs

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