US Officials Hail India’s 80th Independence Day, Highlight Strengthening Bilateral Ties

WASHINGTON — U.S. elected officials from several states marked India’s 80th Independence Day with messages celebrating the Indian-American community and underscoring the strategic importance of stronger ties between Washington and New Delhi.

Ahead of Aug. 15 celebrations in Seattle, governors from Washington, South Dakota, Montana and Alaska sent greetings, according to the Consulate General of India in Seattle. Washington and Nebraska formally proclaimed Aug. 15, 2026, as “India Day,” while officials in Seattle, Bellevue, Kent, SeaTac and King County issued their own proclamations recognizing the occasion.

The messages repeatedly highlighted Indian Americans’ contributions to business, education, technology, health care and civic life.

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte said the community has had a significant impact on his state.

“In Montana, we deeply appreciate 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 enriches all of us,” Gianforte said.

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy similarly praised Indian and Indian-American residents for their role across several sectors.

“Your contributions to our economy, our school, our healthcare system, our businesses, and our communities makes Alaska a stronger place,” Dunleavy said. “On behalf of the people of Alaska, I want to congratulate the Consulate General of India in Seattle and everyone celebrating this special occasion.”

South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden focused on the broader relationship between the two countries.

“May the friendship between our people continue to grow stronger in the years ahead,” he said.

Members of Congress also used the occasion to emphasize India’s growing international role.

Sen. Maria Cantwell of Washington said India’s progress continues to resonate well beyond its borders.

“So, on this special occasion, I extend my sincere appreciation to the Consulate General of India in Seattle, the Indian-American community, and everyone participating in today’s celebration,” Cantwell said.

Rep. Adam Smith said cooperation between the United States and India has become increasingly important to global peace and prosperity.

“Two of the most important countries in the world, working together to try to create a more peaceful, prosperous, and stable society,” Smith said.

He also credited the Indian-American community in the Puget Sound region with making major contributions in technology, education, government, innovation and business.

Rep. Kim Schrier said Indian Americans have become an important part of Washington state’s cultural, educational and economic fabric.

South Dakota Rep. Dusty Johnson described India as “a stable, forward-looking, growing, and increasingly prosperous country” and said the United States is stronger both because of its ties with India and because of the contributions of more than five million Indian Americans.

Rep. Michael Baumgartner, who traveled to India last year, tied the bilateral relationship to broader international security.

“I think the peace and stability of the world really rests in part on good, solid relations between America and India, as the world’s two largest democracies and two countries with different diversities and multiple religions,” he said.

Representatives Suzan DelBene and Marilyn Strickland also sent messages recognizing the occasion. DelBene highlighted Indian Americans’ role in regional innovation and economic growth, while Strickland praised India’s emphasis on education, innovation and community.

The Seattle consulate also released a special performance of “Vande Mataram” featuring Grammy Award-winning violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan and students from the Swara Yoga Ensemble. The performance was recorded at the consulate.

Seattle’s main Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony is scheduled for Aug. 15 atop the Federal Reserve Building, with U.S. officials and members of the Indian-American community expected to attend.

Last year, Seattle commemorated India’s Independence Day by raising the Indian tricolor atop the Space Needle.

India became independent from British rule on Aug. 15, 1947. The anniversary is marked each year with flag ceremonies, cultural events and community celebrations across India and throughout the global Indian diaspora. (Source: IANS)