New Delhi: New York and New Jersey have proclaimed August 15 as ‘India Independence Day’, ahead of India’s upcoming 2026 Independence Day celebrations.
The proclamations recognise India’s journey as an independent nation as well as the growing contributions of the Indian-American community in the two states.
The announcements were shared by the Consulate General of India in New York. New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared August 15, 2026, as ‘India Independence Day’ across the state, while New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill issued a similar proclamation. The Indian Consulate said the move highlighted the democratic values and enduring ties shared by India and the United States.
What the proclamations say
New York and New Jersey are home to some of the largest Indian-American communities in the US, making the move symbolically important. The proclamations noted the community’s contributions across sectors including technology, healthcare, education, business, research and public service.
Hochul’s proclamation highlighted the Indian-American community’s role in 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.
In New Jersey, Sherrill described the state as home to one of the largest and most vibrant Indian-American communities in the country. Her proclamation recognised contributions by Indian Americans in education, healthcare, technology, business, research and community leadership.
The Indian Consulate thanked both governors, saying the proclamations recognised the enduring India-US friendship and the contribution of Indian Americans to the two states.
More US states recognise the day
The proclamations are part of a wider pattern of US state and local authorities recognising India’s Independence Day through annual proclamations and community events.
Earlier this month, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey also declared August 15 as ‘India Day’. Her August 1 proclamation recognised the role of Indian-American community organisations in promoting civic engagement, cultural exchange and understanding. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu also issued a similar proclamation.
Such proclamations are largely ceremonial and symbolic, but nonetheless underline the political and cultural visibility of the Indian-American community in the US. Indian Americans have been known to participate in Independence Day celebrations in the US through flag-hoisting ceremonies, cultural programmes and community gatherings across the country.
The US is home to about 5.4 million people of Indian origin, making Indian Americans one of the country’s largest Asian-origin communities.
