NEW YORK, Aug 14: Governors, senators and lawmakers across the United States have extended greetings to India on its 80th Independence Day, with several states and local jurisdictions issuing proclamations to recognise August 15, 2026, as ‘India Day’ or ‘Indian Independence Day’.
The messages highlighted the enduring relationship between India and the United States while acknowledging the significant role of the Indian-American community in strengthening the economic, cultural, educational and civic life of communities across the country.
Governors from several states, including Montana, Alaska and South Dakota, conveyed their greetings and praised the contributions of Indian and Indian-American residents.
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte, in a video message shared by the Consulate General of India in Seattle, said his state valued the Indian and Indian-American community’s contribution to its cultural, educational and economic life. He also praised the community’s commitment to innovation, learning and public service.
Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy said India’s 80th Independence Day commemorates the courage and determination of those who fought for freedom and self-governance.
He noted that Alaska is home to a vibrant Indian-American community whose contributions to the economy, schools, healthcare, businesses and local communities have helped strengthen the state.
South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden also conveyed his greetings and expressed hope that friendship between the people of India and the US would continue to deepen in the years ahead.
Across the Pacific Northwest, several states, cities and counties have issued proclamations commemorating India’s Independence Day. These include Washington and Nebraska, along with Seattle, Bellevue, Kent, SeaTac and the King County Council.
On the US East Coast, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts and Delaware have also issued proclamations recognising the occasion.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared August 15, 2026, as ‘India Independence Day’ across the state. Her proclamation drew parallels between the freedom struggles of India and the United States and highlighted their shared commitment to self-determination, democracy and liberty.
The proclamation also recognised the annual celebrations organised by the Indian-American community, describing them as a reflection of cross-cultural harmony and the longstanding ties between the two countries.
It praised Indian-American residents across New York for enriching the state’s cultural diversity, economic strength and civic life.
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill proclaimed August 15 as ‘Indian Independence Day’ in the state. The proclamation recognised the community’s contributions to education, healthcare, research, technology, business, public service and community leadership.
It also highlighted the expanding cooperation between India and the US in areas including education, commerce, technology, healthcare and cultural exchange.
Delaware Governor Matthew Meyer similarly recognised the role of the Indian-American community in strengthening the state.
His proclamation said Indian Americans have contributed through their work, leadership and public service while helping create opportunities for future generations.
It also acknowledged India’s rich diversity of languages, traditions and customs and the efforts of generations of Indian Americans to preserve their heritage while building communities in the US.
Meyer encouraged Delaware residents to mark ‘India Day’, celebrate the achievements and heritage of the Indian-American community and recognise the enduring connections between the people of Delaware and India.
Independence Day is commemorated across the US with flag-hoisting ceremonies, parades, cultural programmes and community gatherings. The Embassy of India in Washington, Indian consulates and India’s mission to the United Nations also organise special events to mark August 15.
Large numbers of members of the Indian-American and wider diaspora communities participate in the celebrations, which provide an opportunity to honour India’s independence and showcase its cultural heritage.
US political leaders regularly use the occasion to acknowledge the diaspora’s contributions to American society and the strengthening of relations between the two countries.
Major landmarks have also joined the celebrations in previous years, with prominent sites such as the Empire State Building in New York and the Space Needle in Seattle illuminated in the colours of the Indian Tricolour.