New Delhi, August 14: Several states across the United States have declared August 15 as ‘India Day.’ This initiative honors India’s Independence Day and recognizes the growing contributions of the Indian-American community to the country’s economy, culture, and civic life.
Governors from Delaware, Washington, and Nebraska issued proclamations for this occasion. Ohio’s Governor Mike DeWine and Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted also officially recognized the joint celebration of India’s 80th Independence Day, organized by the Federation of Indian Associations in Ohio and the Indian Consulate in New York.
Cities and local governments in Washington participated in the event as well. Seattle, Bellevue, Kent, and SeaTac issued proclamations, and the Metropolitan King County Council acknowledged the significance of the day.
The proclamations highlighted India’s democratic journey and emphasized the shared values that connect India and the U.S. They also celebrated the contributions of Indian-Americans in business, science, technology, education, healthcare, and public service.
U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell from Washington sent her best wishes to the Indian community and the Indian Consulate General in Seattle. “Please accept my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes on the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day and flag hoisting,” she stated.
Cantwell noted that this year is particularly special as India and the U.S. celebrate 80 years of diplomatic relations. Over the past eight decades, the partnership between the world’s two largest democracies has continually grown and flourished, showcasing their commitment to shared democratic values, prosperity, innovation, and opportunity.
Delaware Governor Matt Meyer declared August 15 as ‘India Day’ across the state. In his proclamation, he stated that Delaware has been enriched by the diverse cultures and traditions present in its communities, including the growing Indian-American population.
He acknowledged that Indian-origin residents have enhanced the state through their work, leadership, and service, contributing to shared prosperity and creating opportunities for future generations.
Additionally, Washington Governor Bob Ferguson also declared India Day, stating that Indian-Americans have enriched the state’s cultural fabric, economic vitality, and civic life. Their contributions as innovators, entrepreneurs, educators, artists, and professionals were highlighted in his proclamation.
Ferguson’s announcement recognized the community’s religious and cultural diversity and commended the Indian Consulate in Seattle for promoting people-to-people relations between India and Washington State.
Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen issued a similar proclamation, noting that the Indian-American community contributes significantly to the state’s economy, civic life, and cultural fabric. He referenced the shared values of democracy, diversity, and mutual respect between India and the U.S.
In Ohio, DeWine and Husted thanked the Indian community for their efforts to showcase their homeland and raise awareness about India’s glorious history.
The Metropolitan King County Council reported that over 100,000 Indian-Americans reside in the region. Their proclamation also noted that approximately 200,000 Indian individuals live in Washington State.
The council recognized India’s progress in education, health, and economic development, declaring August 15 as India’s 80th Independence Day in King County.
Seattle Mayor Katie B. Wilson celebrated India Day in the city. Bellevue Mayor M. Malakoutian, Kent Mayor Dana Ralph, and SeaTac Mayor Mohammad Agl issued separate proclamations acknowledging the cultural, social, and economic contributions of Indian-Americans.
Montana Governor Greg Gianforte expressed appreciation in a video message, stating, “In Montana, we greatly value the contributions of the Indian and Indian-American community to our state’s cultural, educational, and economic life. Your commitment to innovation, learning, and community makes us all better.”
South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden congratulated the Indian Consulate General in Seattle and those attending the celebration. Alaska also extended its best wishes, noting that its Indian and Indian-American communities have strengthened the state through their contributions.
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