- Delaware has proclaimed August 15, 2026, as “India Day.”
- New York and New Jersey issued similar proclamations recognizing India Independence Day.
- The proclamations highlight the contributions of Indian American communities.
- State leaders emphasized the longstanding relationship between India and the United States.
- US cities and communities are preparing Independence Day celebrations for August 15.
Four US states are marking India’s 80th Independence Day with special proclamations recognizing August 15, 2026, as a day to celebrate India and the contributions of Indian American communities.
Delaware is the latest state to issue such a proclamation, following similar recognition from New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts ahead of India’s Independence Day celebrations.
The proclamations underscore the growing visibility of the Indian American community across the United States and highlight the cultural, economic and civic connections between the two countries.
Delaware declares August 15 ‘India Day’
Delaware Governor Matthew Meyer signed a proclamation declaring August 15, 2026, as “India Day” in the state.
The proclamation notes that Delaware is "strengthened" by the many cultures and traditions represented throughout its communities, including the growing Indian-American community whose presence has helped shape the character of the state.
It also recognizes the contributions of Delaware residents of Indian heritage, noting that they have enriched the state through their work, leadership and public service.
According to the proclamation, the Indian American community has contributed to shared prosperity while helping create opportunities for future generations.
Meyer encouraged residents across Delaware to participate in the observance, recognize the contributions of Indian Americans and "honour the enduring ties between our communities and the people of India".
The recognition comes as Indian American organizations and communities prepare for celebrations across the country.
New York and New Jersey recognize India Independence Day
New York Governor Kathy Hochul and New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill issued proclamations recognizing August 15, 2026, as “India Independence Day.”
New York’s proclamation celebrates India’s journey to independence while emphasizing democratic values shared by India and the United States.
The New Jersey proclamation focuses on the contributions of Indian Americans across a wide range of fields, including education, healthcare, research, technology, business, public service and community leadership.
Together, the proclamations reflect the increasingly prominent role of Indian Americans in civic, professional and cultural life across the United States.
The Consulate General of India in New York shared the proclamations on social media and thanked the governors for recognizing the occasion.
India Independence Day celebrations across the US
India’s Independence Day is observed across the United States through a wide range of public and community events.
Annual celebrations include flag-hoisting ceremonies at the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C., Indian consulates and the Indian mission to the United Nations. Communities also organize parades, cultural performances, public gatherings and other events on and around August 15.
This year’s celebrations carry additional significance as India marks its 80th Independence Day.
Events will also place special emphasis on 150 years of “Vande Mataram,” the iconic patriotic song that has played an important role in India’s national history.
The proclamations from Delaware, New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts add an official dimension to the celebrations, recognizing both India’s national milestone and the Indian American communities that have become an integral part of life across the United States.
