New York and New Jersey have issued separate proclamations for August 15 ahead of India’s 80th Independence Day, recognising Indian-American contributions and ties between India and the United States.The Consulate General of India in New York, posting from its X account India in New York (@IndiainNewYork), first announced New York’s proclamation and later shared the recognition issued by New Jersey.In the earlier post, the Consulate said New York was joining celebrations of India’s 80th Independence Day with “a special recognition of the enduring bonds between India and the United States”.New York Governor Kathy Hochul proclaimed August 15, 2026, as “India Independence Day” across the state. Thanking Hochul, @IndiainNewYork said the proclamation celebrated India’s journey of independence and the democratic values shared by India and the US.It also recognised the Indian-American community’s contribution to New York’s cultural, economic and civic life. The proclamation linked India’s freedom movement to nonviolence, truth, self-discipline and moral courage, and described Independence Day events in the US as occasions for cross-cultural harmony across generations.New Jersey followed with a separate proclamation from Governor Mikie Sherrill designating August 15, 2026, as “Indian Independence Day”.“New Jersey joins in celebrating India’s Independence Day,” @IndiainNewYork said while announcing the proclamation and thanking Sherrill for the recognition.The New Jersey proclamation credited Indian-Americans with contributions to education, healthcare, research, technology, business, public service and community leadership. The Consulate said it also celebrated the enduring India-US friendship and the growing partnership in education, commerce, technology, healthcare and cultural exchange.The proclamation further described India’s Independence Day as a tribute to those whose peaceful freedom movement inspired generations around the world and upheld ideals of justice, equality and human dignity.The proclamations come as India prepares to mark its 80th Independence Day. This year’s celebrations will also commemorate 150 years of ‘Vande Mataram’ and focus on ‘Yuva Shakti’, or youth power, with an emphasis on the achievements of students and young people.
