New York, New Jersey proclaim August 15 as India Independence Day

Newyork,UPDATED: Aug 12, 2026 12:24 IST

New York and New Jersey have proclaimed August 15 as "India Independence Day", recognising India’s journey as an independent nation and the contributions of the Indian-American community. The announcements were shared by the Indian Consulate in New York on Tuesday, ahead of India’s 80th Independence Day celebrations.

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 consulate said the proclamations highlight "India’s journey of independence and the democratic values shared by India and the United States".

According to the proclamations, New York and New Jersey are home to some of the largest and most influential Indian-American communities in the United States. Indian-origin residents have made significant contributions across business, healthcare, technology, education and public service.

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

In New Jersey, Sherrill’s proclamation described the state as home to one of the "largest and most vibrant Indian-American communities in the US". It recognised their contributions across education, healthcare, research, technology, business, public service and community leadership.

The Indian Consulate in New York thanked both governors for the proclamations, saying they recognised the enduring India-US friendship and the significant contributions of Indian Americans to the two states. The proclamations are the latest recognition by US state authorities of India’s Independence Day, which is marked by Indian-American communities across the country with cultural programmes, flag-hoisting ceremonies and community events.

Earlier this month, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey also declared August 15 as India Day, recognising the contributions made by the Indian diaspora to the state. In a proclamation issued on August 1, Healey recognised the role of community organisations in fostering civic engagement, cultural exchange and mutual understanding through their annual Independence Day celebrations. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu also issued a similar proclamation declaring August 15 as India Day.

Such official recognitions are gestures that several local and state governments in the US renew or proclaim each year. About 5.4 million people of Indian origin live in the US, where they form the third-largest Asian ethnic group, according to an official website.

With PTI Inputs

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