Two US States Declare August 15 as ‘India Independence Day’

NEW YORK, Aug 12: New York and New Jersey have proclaimed August 15, 2026, as “India Independence Day”, recognising India’s independence journey and the significant contributions of the Indian-American community in both states.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul issued a proclamation declaring August 15 as “India Independence Day” throughout the state, while New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill made a similar declaration, the Indian Consulate in New York said in a post on X.

The proclamations were issued ahead of India’s 80th Independence Day celebrations and underscored the democratic values and longstanding ties shared by India and the United States.

The Indian Consulate welcomed the declarations, describing them as a recognition of the enduring friendship between the two countries and the important role played by Indian Americans in New York and New Jersey.

Hochul’s proclamation highlighted the Indian-American community’s contributions to New York’s cultural, economic and civic life. It also acknowledged India’s struggle against colonial rule and its commitment to self-determination, self-governance and democracy.

New Jersey’s proclamation similarly praised the state’s Indian-American population, describing it as one of the largest and most vibrant such communities in the United States.

It recognised Indian Americans for their contributions to education, healthcare, research, technology, business, public service and community leadership.

New York and New Jersey are home to sizeable Indian-origin populations, with community members playing prominent roles in a wide range of professional and civic fields.

The state level proclamations also reflect the growing recognition of India’s Independence Day celebrations across the United States. Indian-American communities regularly mark August 15 with cultural programmes, flag-hoisting ceremonies and other public events.

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey earlier declared August 15 as “India Day”, acknowledging the Indian diaspora’s contributions to the state. Her proclamation, issued on August 1, also recognised community organisations for promoting civic engagement, cultural exchange and mutual understanding through annual celebrations.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu also proclaimed August 15 as “India Day”.

Such proclamations are periodically issued by US state and local authorities to acknowledge the Indian diaspora and its contributions to American society while celebrating the strong people-to-people relationship between India and the United States.

The Indian-origin population in the US is estimated at around 5.4 million, making it one of the country’s largest Asian-origin communities.